CHILDREN as young as 11 have been caught with drugs at Wiltshire schools and colleges, new figures reveal.

Partial data obtained via a Freedom of Information request detailed 35 incidences of drugs found on Wiltshire school and college premises since 2011.

The incomplete figures, which were requested by the Press Association, detailed a series of drug-related offences – with cannabis emerging as the drug of choice among young people in Wiltshire.

Last year, an 11-year-old child was found in possession of cannabis and a child of 14 was found trafficking controlled drugs on school premises.

In 2011, a 15-year-old youth was given a final warning after possessing cannabis with intent to supply.

Seven incidents involved 14 to 15-year-olds, while there were four incidents each involving 13 and 17-year-olds.

A Wiltshire Police spokesman said the key to preventing substance abuse is getting parents to talk to children about the dangers of drugs.

“Wiltshire Police is committed to targeting illegal drug use within schools and colleges,” he said.

“We work closely with both schools and colleges within the county to ensure young people are educated on the consequences of drug use, both for their health and their criminal record."

“The importance of these messages should never be underestimated.

“As well as engaging with young people, we also encourage parents to talk to their children about the dangers associated with drugs.”