STUDENTS at Debden Park High School have been taught a valuable lesson in the dangers of knife crime by neighbourhood policing officers.

The youngsters were given a hard-hitting presentation about knife-carrying facts and shown graphic images of youngsters who have been assault victims.

Neighbourhood policing Inspector Simon Werrett was accompanied by a team of colleagues during the inter-active sessions which also looked at the problems associated with anti-social behaviour.

Schools Liaison Officer PC Alan Shelley, said: "The images were actual photos of people injured or killed by knives. It was not intended to shock, but to help them understand the reality of what carrying a knife can have. It’s much better they learn this in a safe classroom environment than when it’s too late out on the streets."

A DVD produced by Epping Forest College was shown, illustrating the consequences of being arrested and interviews from students who have been affected by knife crime or have seen the devastating impact it has on families.

Lucy Hummerstone, 18, designed a poster to help with the police campaign. 'Knives ruin lives' was the brainchild of the former design student from Harlow College.

Mr Werrett said: "Epping Forest is one of the safest places to live in the country; however, one knife incident can have a ripple effect across the local community.

"Most of the posters, leaflets and DVDs shown were designed by local young people."