Four arrests after school leavers' party

Four year 11 Bexhill High students were arrested - one for being drunk and disorderly, another for carrying a pocket knife and cannabis, one for being already on a warrant, and one for assault.

Inspector James Scott at Bexhill police station told the Observer his resources that evening were tied up with keeping control on proceedings, with some 150 youngsters congregating there.

He said that in future the school should supply staff.

He criticised mums and dads who gave alcohol to their children and said: “You have got to take responsibility if your kids are going out.

“I would remind parents that until their children are 18 they cannot drink alcohol in public places.

“It was very labour-intensive from our point of view.

“If they just met up there and didn’t drink you would not mind, but when we left at midnight there were bottles lying everywhere and smashed glass.

“This is the fourth year we’ve had this - this year we were prepared.

“We realise it is their last day, and we want kids to enjoy themselves, but this is irresponsible.

“We have to deal with it and take appropriate action.”

Bexhill High School’s principal Mike Conn told the Observer he was “completely shocked” about the arrests and drinking and was unaware of problems in past years.

He blamed a troublesome minority for ruining a memorable day for others and said: “It really worries me that just because children think they have reached the end of their time at school they feel they can behave in any way they like.

“And parents supplying alcohol to children under 18 years of age - what are they thinking of?

“This minority damages the good name of the children who have gone through their years at Bexhill High. It is a great shame the town of Bexhill will be reminded of these things, and not the wonderful things the majority of children have done in the local community.

“I shall be interested to hear from the police any names of people they have arrested and I will take action.”