Police in Kent have arrested a dozen children for suspected gun offences in the last three years, it's been revealed.

Figures released after a Freedom of Information request reveal there were 12 arrests for suspected firearm offences involving boys and one involving a girl since 2013.

A 13-year-old boy, a 15-year-old girl, a 16-year-old boy and two 17-year-old boys were charged with possessing an imitation firearm.

A 16-year-old boy was charged with possessing a firearm without a certificate and a 16-year-old boy was charged with possessing ammunition without a certificate.

Nationally children as young as 10 were among hundreds of young people arrested on suspicion of gun offences in that time.

More than 1,500 were held by police between 2013 and January this year.

Figures from UK forces show arrests last year rose by a fifth.

Ian Cameron Swanston from charity Mothers Against Violence believes young people don't feel safe.

He said: "What's needed is that sense of urgency where it concerns early intervention to prevent young people from actually getting the gun in the first place, and also speaking to their parents if they should be approached by a gang member or older teenager askign them to hold a gun."

Former gang member Jennifer Blake is now a youth worker, who said schoolchildren are often used by gangs to hide weapons.

She added: "They are going to be used because they are less targeted, so they will get away with it, so if they want to have somebody deliver a gun or drugs they will tend to use those individuals."

Inspector Julie Dodge of Kent Police said: "Unregistered and uncertified firearms have no place in our communities, especially amongst children.

"They should not be used for pranks or for protection and anyone we find in possession of an unlawful firearm will be dealt with appropriately.

"Thankfully, the number of firearms offences committed by under 18s is relatively low compared to the national picture and Kent remains a safe place to live, work and visit."