CHILDREN and young people have been caught with drugs at school or college 75 times in the last four years.

The shocking statistics, which relate to the West Mercia Police force area, include 59 cases of cannabis possession – and the problem appears to be increasing.

From just April to November last year there were 15 cannabis offences recorded – more than the total annual figure of 14 for 2013 to 2014 and six higher than the 2012 to 2013 number.

But West Mercia Police has insisted it is tackling the issue and working to educate the region’s young people.

Detective Superintendent James Essex said: “West Mercia Police is committed to targeting illegal drug use throughout the communities we serve - and this includes in our schools and colleges.

“While enforcement is a big part of the police's fight against drug-related crime, education is also hugely important.

“Our officers and staff regularly work in partnership with schools and colleges to highlight the dangers of illegal substances to young people and to tackle drug-related issues if they arise.

“As well as engaging with young people, we also communicate directly with their parents where we can, encouraging them to talk to their children about the dangers associated with drugs.”

The data, which has been released in response to a freedom of information request, reveals there were nine incidents of trafficking in controlled drugs over the past four years and seven cases of possession of illegal substances other than cannabis.

There have been 18 offences in total in the 2014 financial year up to November, compared with 17 in 2013 to 2014, 13 in 2012 to 2013 and 27 in 2011 to 2012.

West Mercia Police have urged young people, parents or carers who are worried about drug use to visit talktofrank.com or contact the advice agency on 0300 1236600.

Anyone with information about the supply of drugs can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.