A REVOLUTIONARY scheme to cut crime by bringing former prisoners face-to-face with Wythall schoolchildren is hoped to take off next year.

A recent trial presentation by former offender Gary White - who served five years for armed robbery at Wellingborough Prison - gave community members a taste of what to expect.

Wythall beat manager Pc Mark Townsend said police, in partnership with Bromsgrove Council and the village's schools, had welcomed the initiative, aimed at "de-glamorising" crime and prison.

He said: "By bringing school children face-to-face with former criminals they are able to see the other, less attractive side of crime.

"To hear it from the ex-criminal's lips, with all the harsh details, holds a far greater impact than hearing it from a police officer."

He added: "Our job stops when the offender is taken to prison but there are other, far more shocking tales from inside jail."

Pc Townsend said he was convinced hearing the gritty testimonial would help steer children away from a life of crime.

He said the trial presentation, while shocking, was "extremely successful" and made a huge impression on the audience.

It is hoped the initiative, led by Bromsgrove community safety constable Andrew Holliday, will be eventually introduced throughout Bromsgrove.

Pc Townsend said the scheme would hopefully be in place in 2005, after funding had been secured.

He said work was also needed to change the Schools' Involvement Policy, which currently prevents former criminals from entering school premises.

But he said: "This is a revolutionary idea for which we have very high hopes. Even I learned a great deal from the presentation and I've been doing this job for years."