A film by a Cumbria-based charity highlighting the dangers of “mate crime” has won a prestigious national award.

The term describes how some people - particularly those who are vulnerable in some way - can be exploited financially, sexually, or physically by somebody posing as a friend.

Carlisle Mencap’s Independence Studio at the charity’s Grace Little Centre for Children in north Carlisle has created a short film called Tell Someone – What To Do About Mate Crime, which brilliantly spells out the dangers.

It has won the coveted first prize - along with a £1,000 cheque - at the annual National Crimebeat Awards in London.

National Crimebeat is the youth crime prevention charity of the High Sheriffs’ Association of England and Wales and the awards recognise innovative and successful crime projects created by young people.

Independence Studio members Tim Baty and Rebecca Aitken, with Carlisle Mencap’s chief executive officer Sheila Gregory and Independence Studio staff member Daniel Campbell, travelled to London for the awards ceremony and lunch.

The High Sheriff of Cumbria, Simon Berry, a keen supporter of Carlisle Mencap, was also at the celebrations. Mrs Gregory said: “We were delighted to win first prize. Our Independence Studio have been nominated for this prestigious national award on four occasions.

“We have been lucky enough to be second before but this time we won the first prize.

“We presented our work to prevent crime on stage and had an incredible response from the audience, made up of high sheriffs from all over the country, and senior police office, including an assistant commissioner form the Metropolitan Police.

“I am so proud of the team.”

Tell Someone was produced with the support of the Police Commissioner Peter McCall, Cumbria Constabulary, and the Haltwhistle Film Project. It is the latest film produced by the Independence Studio.

The disabled members create the products by taking the lead in script writing, filmmaking and acting.