LABOUR hopeful Anne Snelgrove has backed a campaign to give pupils tips on staying safe.

The prospective parliamentary candidate who wants to replace Julia Drown as Labour MP for South Swindon when she steps down, said it was vital to protect youngsters from crime.

SAFE, a Home Office scheme to give children advice on how to avoid being a victim of crime, has been welcomed by teachers in the town.

Mrs Snelgrove, a former teacher, said: "SAFE week is being held in the peak month for street crime and will help combat thieves who take advantage of the dark and target victims with Christmas presents.

"It is a great way of helping to make local children, and their possessions, safer."

For more information about SAFE visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org/solving/safe.