TWO WENSLEYDALE schools have joined together to send out an anti-bullying message by recording rap songs.

Last year pupils from Leyburn and Spennithorne Primary schools worked with PCSO Richard Braddick of Leyburn Police during anti-bullying week last November.

The ten- and 11-year-olds from years 5 and 6 were asked to write rap songs on the topic. As PCSO Braddick thought the results were so good, an approach to Richmondshire District Council resulted in funding for a recording session.

Funded by the Safer Richmondshire Community Safety Local Delivery Team, the top three tracks were professionally recorded at Finkle Street Music in Richmond. The backing tracks were made especially for them by Peter Simpson who was impressed with the children’s hard work and enthusiasm.

He said: “It was really nice to see the children enjoying themselves and was a brilliant morning.”

The rap songs were performed and recorded by the youngsters who wrote them. As well as a performance at the two schools the raps will be placed on social media for a wider audience to get their messages across to other children.

Pat Wilson, community safety manager for the Safer Richmondshire LDT said: “This project has been a really good example of engaging effectively with our younger children.

“PCSO Braddick works tirelessly with the schools, and has really captured the imagination of the youngsters who have produced these raps.

“They had a really good morning at the recording studios and I am sure that it is a memory that will last with them, as well as the important messages that they have been rapping about.”