POLICE have been advising parents about the warning signs that might indicate that their child is a victim of grooming.

PCSOs Gail Davies and Jonathan Thornley spoke at Parents' Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Day to make people aware of the types of behaviour that youngsters in danger may demonstrate.

They include being withdrawn, being secretive about who they are with and possessing money and gifts that they cannot account for.

Yesterday The Bolton News told a mother's story about her 15-year-old daughter's horrific ordeal at the hands of two men who sexually abused her.

The Horwich teenager was raped by Hardi Hijrani and abused by Alec Walker — a 49-year-old who pretended he was 20 years younger to win her trust.

Ms Davies advised: "Online grooming is becoming more and more widespread. Young girls are engaging with older people who are coercing them into sending intimate pictures of themselves, which is an offence.

"Parents need to get ahead of the game with social media and check that their children are not getting involved with anything inappropriate. They think they're sending a photo to someone they are in love with, but it could quite easily be shared around the school.

The officer was speaking at the event at Crompton Children's Centre in Astley Bridge.

She said: "There are tools you can download to your computer to stop children accessing over-18 videos on YouTube, for example, or limit their time on particular sites."

Those who are concerned about their child's welfare are being advised to contact Phoenix Exit Bolton — a team set up to share intelligence about child sexual exploitation (CSE).

Ms Davies said: "We want people to spot the signs to increase reporting. They are difficult investigations but we have had some successful convictions. We want to offer support to victims and send the message out that grooming in Bolton is completely unacceptable.

"If anyone recognises any of the signs then I urge them to call Phoenix Exit Team who will help you."

To find out more information call Phoenix Exit Team on 01204 337195, or visit itsnotokay.co.uk.