'Band it like Beckham' to beat bullies

Jess Sparrow, whose life was made a misery after she was targeted by thugs in the playground, met David Beckham at an event organised by the Department for Education and Skills.

Young people across the country have been wearing the blue wristbands to make a stand against bullying in all its forms.

They have helped support a range of measures introduced to tackle bullies.

Thirteen year-old Jess, who is a Manchester United fan, was thrilled to meet her hero - who is in the country preparing for a friendly international match.

She said:

"I can't believe that a few weeks ago my life was so different, so miserable. Now I'm here with David Beckham. It's fantastic. I hope no-one has to suffer bullying ever again."

The Beat Bullying campaign was launched last November and supported by several personalities and sports stars.

Originally 100,000 wristbands were produced but they were snapped up just 36 hours are being made available.