A borough school has warned parents about the dangers of children using an app over fears it could be used to talk to strangers.

Deputy headteacher of Park View Primary School in Prestwich, Rachel McClean, has asked parents and carers to be "vigilant" and to speak to their children about the Minichat app.

The minimum age for using the app is 17 and Ms McClean said it is "definitely unsuitable" for those who are younger.

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In a letter, Ms McClean, who is also the school's safeguarding lead, said: "Dear parents and carers, school have been advised that there is a relatively new app called Minichat.

"This app allows people to video chat to strangers.

"I am sure that you are aware of how dangerous it could be for children if they were to be using this app.

"Please can I ask all parents to be vigilant, speak to your children about this app and any other app that allows you to talk to strangers.

"If you are concerned, please check your child’s phone or other devices.

"The legal age limit for this app is 17+ and it is definitely unsuitable for any child under that age limit.

"As always please can I thank you in advance for your support on this as we work together to keep our children safe online.

"If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me in school."

Minichat has a number of rules for users to follow including warning against abuse.

A message in the rules state: "We are continually working hard and putting a high focus on preventing any violation of our chat rules and to punish users who continue to breach them.

"However, we cannot be held responsible for the actions of all users and cannot guarantee that all violators will be banned.

"When you complain and report against violators, you are helping us make Minichat a safer chat environment and helping us to find and remove all violators."

The company was approached for a comment about the school letter.