IT is incredibly distressing to hear that local charity Bully Free Zone will be closing at the end of the month after 15 years of offering support to the vulnerable young people of Bolton.

The work of anti-bullying groups such as these is a vital resource for many children who feel victimised and targeted at school or in the playground.

Many victims of bullying feel that they are too embarrassed or ashamed to talk about their issues to friends and family for fear of shame and ridicule, therefore it is important that independent, impartial and most importantly, confidential anti-bullying support is always available.

Common symptoms of bullying include anxiety, decline in school performance and changes in mental behaviour.

Bullying has changed significantly in recent years. No longer is it just the typical name calling and playground violence, but, worryingly, we are starting to see bullying taking a more cyber form through Facebook and other social networking sites.

Groups such as Bully Free Zone are desperately needed to help victims overcome their bullies so they can get their life back together.

Paul Nuttall North West UKIP MEP