Students from West Herts College were searched by police officers this morning.

A total of 25 PCs and PCSOs turned up unannounced and carried out body-searches, as well as using "knife arches" to scan for offensive weapons.

Sergeant Scott Curran said: "It’s good for the college and stops people even contemplating bringing something inappropriate to college.

"Although Watford has quite low knife crime, we want people to know it’s unacceptable for them to bring one into this environment."

Plain clothes officers were also on hand to keep an eye on the 800 students as they made their way through the reception hall.

Sgt Curran added: "Sometimes people walk in and see the arches and walk away and it’s the job of the plain clothes officers to spot those."

As well as searching students, the officers gave out personal alarms, safety advice, flyers and ran a recruitment information desk.

Emma Doree, director of learner services, added: This is the fourth time in five years that we have invited officers into run a safety day - it is a really beneficial exercise for all involved.

"Today was a particularly successful exercise and, as far as we are aware, all students were compliant."