AN INTERNET safety event is taking place at Droitwich Library today (Wednesday).

The event, which runs between 10am and 1pm, is hosted by Westacre Middle School, West Mercia Police, South Worcestershire Citizens Advice and other Droitwich schools.

The aim of the session is to promote using the internet safely, and to showcase the work of schools already working to keep youngsters safe online.

And the event has been backed by Droitwich MP Nigel Huddleston, who formerly worked for Google.

Tim Bawler, of the Citizens Advice, said: "My involvement with Citizens Advice as a volunteer, has shown that the internet is virtually essential to gain access to more and more services.

"Digital exclusion increasingly isolates people. 

"The internet is a friend but must be used with respect and care to avoid its unwanted effects.

"That's why online internet safety is crucial. 

"Droitwich schools, and in particular Westacre Middle school, are leaders in championing internet safety among school aged children in Worcestershire.

"When it comes to many parents and grandparents, however, many have no concept of the possible dangers and how to be internet safety aware."

In a video message, Mr Huddleston, MP for Mid-Worcestershire, said: "I think this is a really important topic.

"There is huge opportunities and a lot of good that comes from social media and being online but also it's quite dangerous sometimes and you have got to treat the internet with respect.

"I'm glad that today you'll be learning about the postivies and thenegatives of online and in particular about how to behave and how to respond to social media."