YOUNGSTERS have been warned to stay safe while using the internet.

The message was given by animated character Wes to highlight a new e-safety website which was launched by Worcestershire safeguarding children’s board yesterday.

The site, wes.networcs.net, gives information and advice to children and their parents about how to stay safe online.

Children from schools including St George’s CE Primary School and Blessed Edward Oldcorne Catholic College were at the launch held at Worcester College of Technology.

Youngsters heard from Detective Superintendent Martin Lakeman, head of public protection at West Mercia Police.

He said: “The internet is a fantastic place, but like any fantastic place it’s got risks.

“If you stick to what we call the SMART rules you can reduce these risks and have a fantastic time.”

The SMART rules advise against giving out personal information, against arranging to meet strangers and not to accept e-mails or pictures from people you don’t know.

They also encourage youngsters to understand people may lie online and to tell parents or trusted adults about anything that makes them feel uncomfortable.

Niamh McManus and Edward Kelly, both aged 11, and pupils at Blessed Edward Oldcorne Catholic College, were at the event.

Niamh said she believed most young people already felt safe online and knew where to go for help.

She said: “Nothing bad has happened to me and no one has said anything bad. I only accept people I know (as Facebook friends).”

Edward said: “I thought it was quite good. It could help somebody if they were being bullied online.”

Speaking after the event, Det Supt Lakeman said: “I want parents to sit down with their children and explore the internet together.

“Most parents don’t want to ask what their kids are doing online because they won’t like the answer, but by making it part of family life the parents can become cooler and the internet can be fun, which is what it should be.”

Players from Worcester Warriors RFC, Worcester Wolves basketball team and TV presenter Michael Collie were also at the launch.