PARENTS have been left shocked after finding out that CCTV is to be installed in the toilets of a school.

Nelson Thomlinson School in Wigton notified parents that they will be installing the CCTV for the safety of the youngsters.

One parent, who didn’t wish to be named, said: “I can’t believe they’re doing this, the children need to have privacy.

“When they go to the toilets and come out it's not right that they will be getting filmed.

“I don’t understand why they think it is ok to film them. I have a daughter and I don’t want her being filmed while she is in the toilets.”

However the headmaster of the school explained that the cameras have been there for a number of years and they are just upgrading them.

The move he hope will deter vandalism and the illegal use of vapes in the toilet.

He insisted that they pupils will not be filmed while they’re using in the toilet.

Headteacher for the school Sam Northwood said: “We have indeed begun to extend our CCTV coverage, which already exists in a number of communal areas around the school site; all parents have been made aware.

“The toilets themselves (cubicles/urinals) are not covered by cameras – for obvious reasons.

“The original cameras were installed two decades ago and have proved over that period to be of great benefit in helping to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all pupils at our school and to maintain the best possible environment for them.

“We are very grateful to the many parents and children who have responded so positively to news of the recent extension.”