Schoolchildren are broadcasting their own TV programmes over the internet.

Online station Southend TV this month launched its Local Schools TV service, in association with Belfairs Media Arts School, in Leigh.

They have already produced a variety of documentaries, cartoons and musical montages ready to be viewed.

Steve Smith, media manager of Belfairs High School, said: "The pupils have been producing programmes in their own time and as part of their media coursework.

"We thought we would try and get some of this work aired and Southend TV seems the best outlet for that.

"It seems to be where technology is heading and we want to be at the forefront of that.

"Our students can also become part of that audience and access each other's work."

John Chapman, managing director of Southend TV, said: "We have been trying to develop and turn into a community channel. I went to Belfairs to see if there was a way we could get content for the channel from the local media arts schools.

"I believe the internet is the future of TV."

Southend TV has been up and running for about 18 months.

It is currently run from Mr Chapman's home in South Woodham Ferrers, but is looking for premises in Southend.

As well as Local School TV, it also features music videos made by local bands, and documentaries about Southend and the surrounding area.

It is currently developing a new series promoting the best places to visit in Southend, and is looking for pubs, hotels, restaurants and other attractions which would like to be featured.

Southend TV is building up an appreciative audience and is already viewed by people from 35 different countries around the world. It can be viewed by logging onto www.southend.tv.