False rumours are flying around Kent schools that sweets have been contaminated - with killer drug crystal meth.

Kent Police have issued a statement quashing the gossip that has spread through the county as a hoax.

The force said it wants to reasure parents there is no evidence of the highly-addictive class A drug being found in sweets.

The fake rumours about stimulant crystal methamphetamine being planted in sweets and popping candy have been circulating in schools and social networking sites.

As part of the hoax, pupils are warned by other children to avoid being offered sweets called Strawberry Quick and Strawberry Meth.

Kent Police said it does not believe sweets by this name even exist.

Insp Ian Sandwell, Kent Police drugs liaison officer, said: "The rumour around crystal meth being put in sweets is nothing more than an urban myth.

"It is a hoax which has been circulating for many years and every so often rears its head again.

"I would reassure parents and children that there is absolutely no truth to the rumour and no evidence of any such drug has ever been found.

"If anyone has concerns about illegal drugs or wishes to seek advice, schools have appointed police liaison officers who can assist in relation to any issues about drug taking."