Pupils are helping raise awareness of the dangers of sexting - through a play.

Detectives from the Kent Police’s public protection unit, with support from Medway safeguarding children board, have been working with Robert Napier School in Gillingham, who are studying Level 3 BTEC performing arts.

Sexting is a relatively new phenomenon with increasing numbers of children exchanging sexual messages and images that can then be used to bully, intimidate and abuse them.

A group of pupils visited Medway Police Station in Purser Way, Gillingham, to perform a 12-minute play to police officers, and representatives from other organisations. They performed the play about the issue as well as highlight the dangers which can come of it. The play was recorded and will be used to educate other youngsters.

DI David Godfrey said: “Sexting can affect young people and even lead to victims self-harming and placing themselves in vulnerable situations.

“Bullying will often lead to victims being blackmailed into agreeing to take part in further sexual acts.”

After watching the students perform the play, Matthew Scott, crime commissioner, added: ‘’I was really impressed by the performance and the enthusiasm that the students had and that they spent their own time perfecting a play themed on such an important issue.

Anyone with concerns around this issue or any other issue can call Kent Police on 101 to discuss their worries.