STUDENTS at an Odiham school have created an animated video to help young people avoid nude pictures and their life-changing consequences.

Students from Robert May’s School, in West Street, presented the latest version of a film they have created ahead of the World Safer Internet Day at a special presentation evening inside the chambers of Hart District Council.

It comes after the students, all aged between 13 and 14, were chosen as the winners of Hampshire Constabulary’s Police Apprentice sexting prevention campaign competition in November last year on national children’s takeover day.

Children from schools across the county were invited to submit ideas that could improve understanding of the law, and encourage their peers to make safer, positive choices.

Robert May’s School was chosen on the strength of an original animated concept that warns of nude or sexual pictures spreading faster than a ‘wildfire’ once shared with someone else.

Hampshire Constabulary’s school and youth engagement co-ordinate PC Maria Carrick said: “The difficulties and dangers facing children in a digital online world can be faced and resolved with the opinions and talents of young people themselves.

“Police and schools can work well together to increase understanding of the consequences caused by nude pictures.

Sexting behaviour will have a damaging effect on young people’s lives, wellbeing, education and prospects. However, there is support and hope for anyone who may find themselves in this situation.”

She added: “We’re proud and delighted that the students at Robert May’s School embraced our Police Apprentice competition, showing fantastic initiative to illustrate the reasons, risks and support that exist when a situation involving a nude picture can dominate the thoughts and emotions of a teenager.”

The winning team was made up of Alfie Payne, 14, Chyanne Cox, 14, Katherine Bowditch, 13, Annabel Main, 14, Charlotte Applin, 14, and Anna Driver, 13.

Head teacher, Mrs Joanna West, said the school was proud to be associated with the police scheme.

She added: “Young people’s safety and wellbeing is central to our core purpose.”

The video illustrates how a female character sends a naked selfie to a boy before he goes on to share the picture several times with other young people he knows.

To watch the video, visit youtube.com/ watch?v=xggCryoJ5es