Students learnt about the forensic investigation when they solved a crime of stolen Easter eggs.

Classmates at Sutton’s Carew Manor School were given a helping hand in finding the culprit from Sutton PCSOs Jeff Watson and Michaela Russell, of Sutton’s Safer Transport Team.

A police spokesman said one of the pupils climbed into a forensic suit as his classmates tested the soil for traces of acid, collected the evidence in sealed bags and worked to match the other clues to the offender.

Teachers played the part of suspects with bandages on their heads, plasters on their faces and chocolate on their lips.

Nearly 100 pupils aged between 13-16 took part in the investigation throughout the day.

PCSO Jeff Watson said: “The youngsters had a great time and really got into their roles to track down the villain.”

Science teacher Ruth Roberts said: “We were delighted with the opportunity to work with the police to show how science works in practice.”