A PRIMARY school is warning parents about a dangerous online game which encourages children to self-harm.

The warning has been shared by Lee Chapel Primary School in Basildon who are urging parents to take note of the advice.

The "suicide game", called Momo, is believed to have been received by a seven-year-old boy in Manchester and targets young people on social media and WhatsApp.

The doll encourages them to add a contact on WhatsApp at which point they are inundated with violent images and dares.

It encourages them to self-harm and the ultimate post tells them to take their own lives.

E-Safety Training - a company founded by John Woodley and John Staines and based in Essex - has shared vital advice for parents who are concerned their child may be susceptible to the harrowing game.

In a Facebook post, it said: "We are extremely worried as we have information that suggests numerous children are now being exposed to the Momo challenge on a daily basis and we want to make 100 per cent sure that our followers and their friends are fully sighted on the situation.

"Every parent needs to make sure they have a line of communication with their child at home whereby they will be able to speak to them if they come across anything that remotely links to this situation.

"Children need to know they can raise these issues with their parents without then having to deal with an immediate ban from electronics."

If adults are concerned or have any questions on how to approach the subject with their children, they can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or visit the NSPCC website.

Children who are worried about their activity on apps or online games can contact Childline 24 hours a day, online and over the phone on 0800 1111.

It is understood the original artwork used by the hackers has been taken from a designer in Japan who has no connection whatsoever with the Momo challenge.