THE BATTLE against homophobia was examined during a special theatrical performance at a Redbridge school.

Members of theatre company Little Fish visited Forest School, in Snaresbrook, to perform the educational play 'Them and Us' - to help tackle anti-gay bullying in the playground.

The performance also included a chance for youngsters to learn more about the issues facing gay people in the UK.

Forest teacher George Paynter said: "The question-and-answer session involved some tongue-in-cheek and frivolous questions but this is often the only way to get the issues out in the open.

"The production is funded by P.A.C.E., an organisation supported by London Councils to work with schools.

"The play followed tutorial work to help to get the message across.

"All schools are required to address issues of bullying and to recognise the validity of different sexual orientations."

Mr Paynter said the school had also organised training for its staff for tackling bullying, including homophobic bullying.

He said: "The play is intended to provoke similar discussions amongst the boys and to raise awareness in this difficult and sometimes overlooked area.

"The idea is that a whole-school approach with the support of all staff is the only way to squash homophobic bullying."