A prison officer is planning to launch a charity after the success of a Facebook campaign he started.

In May, we reported how Michael Rolfe, who works at HMP Elmley in Eastchurch, had set up a page called Know The Danger which aimed to draw attention to the daily risks faced by jail staff.

He wanted to get across the sometimes extremely violent situations they can find themselves in and also give a factual, non-biased reflection of current issues and allow topical debate.

Within two days, it had got more than 1,500 members and now there are almost 7,000 people who follow the regular updates.

He launched it after an incident at another prison where a worker was taken hostage and he hoped other staff would join and share their experiences.

Hundreds of people have and the 35-year-old says he has even been in contact with prison services in America and Australia who have given support to the campaign and will be sharing their similar encounters on there.

As it was so popular the Minster resident decided to take it further and has now had Know The Danger wristbands made.

They are to kick-start his plans to set up a charity which will support prison officers injured in the line of duty.

Money has already been raised through their sale and there are plans for more merchandise in the future to boost funds.

Dad-of-two Mr Rolfe said: “It’s done really well and has been really successful.

“Prison staff have related to it, there’s people from all over the country.

“I have been surprised with how well it’s taken off because I thought at first it would be hardened activists but there’s a lot of public support.”