KEIGHLEY schoolchildren are being challenged to develop an innovative resource that will help keep themselves and their peers safe online.

A third annual cyber crime competition is seeking ideas from youngsters in years seven to nine, across the district and West Yorkshire.

Working in teams, pupils are being challenged to come up with an idea which could range from a website or leaflet to a phone app or rap.

Children have until March 27 to design, test and launch their creations.

Entries should be submitted in the form of a three-minute YouTube video.

Six groups will then be shortlisted to take part in an X-Factor-style final at the West Yorkshire Police training centre, Wakefield, in May.

The winning team will receive a £50 voucher for its school, a trophy and input from the police cyber crime unit, and the youngsters will be given a tour of the West Yorkshire Police specialist operations site.

West Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Mark Burns-Williamson, who is organising the competition with the police, said: “Tackling cyber crime is a key focus in my Police and Crime Plan and young people have a crucial role in helping us to better understand and address the issues associated with it.

“We are really keen for as many schools as possible to embrace this competition and join the fight against cyber criminals. I would encourage parents, teachers and of course young people themselves to ask their schools to get involved.”

Detective Inspector Dan Tillett, of the West Yorkshire Police cyber crime team, said children and young adults were “the first line of defence” in the battle against online crime.

“They promote ‘digital hygiene’ in the home and utilise cyber protection techniques that thwart the attempts of cyber criminals,” he added. “Education and engagement play a key role in ensuring that children grasp the opportunities presented through technology and embrace them, securing positive advancements for all.”

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