STUDENTS at a Herefordshire school had to investigate a mock crime scene so convincing that local residents thought it was real.

Forensic science students at Lady Hawkins’ School in Kington had to investigate the scene a break in, murder and a suspected drugs lab that was found in the search of the house last month that was created by science teacher Kirstie Hallam, at the Cricket Pavilion in the school grounds.

However, the students were so involved in their new role as crime scene investigators (CSIs) that school headteacher Gary House received a number of calls from local residents worried that a crime had actually been committed.

Mr House said: "The Kington community is fiercely supportive of its school so after setting the crime scene, with community police help, it was no surprise to get a couple of calls from concerned residents.

“Once they were clear it was a school activity the residents switched from concern to interest and wanted to know all about out trainee CSIs."

Every student that took part in the activity achieved a distinction for the unit.

Mr House added: “Following on from the success of the Forensic Science BTEC qualification, we are introducing new vocational courses from September 2013 including business studies and health and social care.”