FIFTY knitted and crocheted teddy bears will provide comfort to vulnerable victims of crime in Wyre Forest, thanks to some kind-hearted staff and students in Stourport.

Inspired by a documentary, the team behind a crochet club at Stourport High School decided to set up their own project to help Wyre Forest Police when dealing with traumatic incidents involving children.

The "Wyre Forest Bears" were knitted or crocheted by students and staff to be used by Safer Neighbourhood Teams as an engagement tool for vulnerable and young victims of crime.

Head teacher Lorna Deakin said: "We are delighted to be part of such an important scheme and hope that our teddies provide much comfort to those who need it.”

All of the bears are individually named and tagged, taking inspiration from the Wyre Forest area.

Inspector Jacob Wright, of Wyre Forest Police, said: "This project isn’t about the policing becoming soft and taking our foot off the gas tackling some of the serious and complex crime, but instead recognition from students at Stourport High and from those within our community that often children and vulnerable people get caught up in distressing and upsetting incidents.

"These bears will be used to provide some temporary comfort and at times, distraction to those who need it and I’m really appreciative of the thought and consideration students have shown in coming up with the idea and supporting policing in a considerate and empathetic way.”

The bears will feature in some of the force's designated interview suites where children and vulnerable people are asked to provide police with information about crimes.