YOUNG people across the district are being challenged to develop resources which combat cyber crime.

School children in years seven, eight and nine are being asked to come-up with ideas to keep web surfers safe.

The competition is being staged after a successful pilot last year.

Behind the initiative are West Yorkshire Police and the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Mark Burns-Williamson, together with supermarket giant Asda.

Teams have until December 7 to design, test and then launch their resources, which could range from a website or leaflet to a phone app or even a rap. A rap and dance performance was victorious last year.

Entries will be shortlisted and six groups will then go forward to a final at the police training centre in Wakefield on February 14 next year.

All the finalists will be awarded certificates.

And the overall winner will receive a trophy, a tour of the West Yorkshire Police specialist operations site – which includes the mounted section, dog unit and helicopter – and a behind-the-scenes look at Asda’s headquarters in Leeds.

Mr Burns-Williamson said: “It is fantastic to have Asda on board, which will definitely help to promote and increase the reach of the competition.

“We want as many groups as possible to take part and I would encourage parents, teachers and of course young people themselves to ask their schools to get involved.

“Tackling cyber crime remains a key focus in my recently-refreshed Police and Crime Plan for West Yorkshire and young people have a crucial role in helping us to better understand and tackle the issues associated with it.

“I would like to wish the very best of luck to all those who enter and look forward to seeing their creative ideas and resources being produced in a few months’ time.”

Across England and Wales, 1.5 million cyber offences were recorded last year, but it is thought many more were unreported.

West Yorkshire’s Assistant Chief Constable, Russ Foster, said: “Cyber crime is rapidly becoming more and more of an issue – the computer has now become the ‘go to’ tool for many criminals.

“It’s important that young people know the risks and dangers associated with cyber crime. Education is key in informing youngsters about it and this competition does just that.

“It will be great to see young people getting involved in the competition.

“Hopefully it will recognise talented youngsters who have IT skills which can be used after they leave education and step into the world of work.”

For more details about the competition, visit westyorkshire.police.uk/cyber-contest.