Kings Academy and Cheddar Policing Team have been taking a proactive approach to safeguarding the young people of the village by jointly holding a Drugs Awareness Week.

Key events of the week included drug awareness assemblies delivered to the students which were facilitated by the Policing Team, targeting areas around County Lines, drug possession and supply, college/university and peer pressure.

Kings were also delighted with the opportunity for sniffer dog Alfie and his handler to visit and carry out a demonstration of their work around the school site.

In addition to the support provided to students this week, parent and carers are invited to attend a question and answer evening with the Policing Team next week to help them to understand the risks and signs of drug use and supply, and how to support their children.

PC Tracey Jones from the Cheddar Beat Team said: "Working in partnership with the Kings of Wessex Academy is key to the preventative work that they and the police do around drugs.

"There has been a noticeable increase in the media around County Lines and drug use, and it is vital that students are educated at a young age to give them the knowledge to make informed decisions about their future. Members of the Cheddar Beat Team are available if anyone wishes to speak with them."

Gemma Hunt, deputy head, said: "Kings Academy works collaboratively with our local Police Team to tackle a plethora of issues.

"Regular contact with the police is fundamental in maintaining a strong and positive relationship with our students and the local community to ensure that they are confident in making informed choices and asking for support when needed.

"We look forward to continuing our work with the police to educate, support and safeguard our young people in Cheddar."