‘DON’T be mean behind the screen’ was the message given to Year Seven and Eight students at the Dean Academy by musician Rich Cottell.

The singer-songwriter, who has worked with pop stars like Jessie J and The Wanted, visited the Lydney school as part of a campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of the internet and online bullying.

He said: “I’ve seen first-hand the harmful effects of cyber bullying on a member of my family and it is devastating.”

He urged students to keep personal information private and to report any problems to the CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre) adding: “It is really important to reach out to someone and tell them what is happening, don’t keep it to yourself.”

Students were treated to a performance of songs including his new single Whisk Away The Working Day from his forthcoming album. A handful of students were thrilled to be able to join him on stage and they also got a chance to get autographs and pose for selfies.

Year Seven pupil, Zia Waring said: “I found the talk really interesting and I learnt a lot. He made some really good points about cyber bullying because it can be painful and some children harm themselves because of it.”

Mr Mark Thompson, head of Year 7 at the academy, added: “We are grateful to Rich for coming in and talking to our students and putting such an important message across in a fun and accessible way. It is essential that children are made aware of cyber bullying and are taught how to use the internet and social media in a safe and responsible manner.”

•TWO Rivers Housing helped at least three of its tenants improve their digital skills as part of ‘Get Online Week,’

The housing association, in Newent, held two mobile IT drop-in events in Cinderford and Sedbury where Tim Watkins, a Two Rivers IT systems administrator, and a community engagement team member gave advice to anyone who came with their phones, tablets, laptops and cameras.

‘Get Online Week’ happens every October across the UK and is run by the Tinder foundation.