John SaundersTHE parents of a teenager who was a victim of a brutal robbery have welcomed a new initiative to help protect schoolchildren from crime.

A 17-year-old youth, who was jailed for nine months after being convicted for a string of robbery offences, stole a £200 bike from Commonweal School pupil Jake Gilbert, 15, by elbowing him in the shoulder and pulling it from his grasp.

His dad, Alan, 41, of Birch Street, Swindon, welcomed the launch of the week-long Home Office scheme, SAFE, which gives schoolchildren around the country advice on how to avoid being a victim of crime.

The campaign coincides with the peak month for street robberies as thieves take advantage of the dark and target victims with new Christmas presents.

"Anything like this is a good thing because it will warn kids about what not to do," said Mr Gilbert.

"It was not a nice thing for my son to go through and he was down about it for a while.

"He used to go out on his bike all the time, but now he's a bit wary about going out by himself.

"He'll be happy to listen to any advice given out by the school."

Under SAFE, which was launched in partnership with Crimestoppers yesterday, crime-fighting experts, including the police and the Home Office, have designed special assemblies where advice will be given.

This will include practical tips, including how to keep valuables hidden, so children can protect themselves.

At the same time, a renewed wave of TV and radio ads will be aired warning of the dangers.

John Saunders, headteacher of Warneford School in Highworth, said the campaign would benefit pupils.

"I think any initiative that helps young people be more aware of crime and teaches commonsense guidelines is a good thing," he said.

"It will help reduce the risks as sometimes young people think it will never happen to them."

Paul Rowlandson, community safety director for the Government Office of the South West, said thieves were more likely to target youngsters because an increasing number owned expensive mobile phones, iPODs and MP3 players.

"Robbery is an opportunist crime and with some basic information, young people can be protected from this type of crime," he said.

For more information about SAFE, which includes links to educational resources, visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org/solving/safe

Useful advice

Don't flash your valuables about keep them hidden.

Be aware of your surroundings.

Think about your route beforehand before travelling, especially if you're going to be on your own. If possible travel with friends.

Keep your bag zipped up and make sure your wallet or purse can't be seen.

Stay aware at bus stops, inside or around train stations and at other transport links, and don't take your phone out at these locations.

Spread your possessions about for example, keep your mobile phone separate from your wallet.

Ben Payne