POLICE were called to a secondary school after two men scuffled with pupils and threatened staff on the playing fields.

The incident, which was over within minutes, saw a 24-year-old man and 16-year-old youth scale a fence to enter Woodham Academy in Newton Aycliffe on Friday, January 23.

A scuffle then occurred with pupils who were on their lunch break at the time, before staff intervened and escorted the men off the site.

Police arrived minutes later and arrested the intruders on suspicion of assault and resisting arrest.

The younger man was also arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer after allegedly spitting in an officer's face.

It is believed the intruders were under the influence of drugs at the time.

Sergeant Mark Edwards, of Newton Aycliffe Neighbourhood Police, said: “Two males, one of whom is 16, entered the school site and got involved in an altercation and a push around with pupils.

“Staff quickly intervened and got all of the pupils inside the building. Threats were made towards staff but no-one was injured and no weapons were involved.

“The males were arrested nearby and taken into custody. We have released them on police bail pending further enquiries and will be taking statements from staff and students.”

Christine Forsyth, headteacher at Woodham Academy, praised her staff for their quick actions on the day.

She said a letter of reassurance had been sent to parents, adding: “Two people came on site and were spotted on CCTV.

“Within minutes they were surrounded by the school leadership and escorted off site. Safe guarding measures were put to the test and proved highly effective.”