While youngsters were counting the hours until the launch of the new Harry Potter film movie this week, a serious message was issued by teachers in Hertfordshire.
The county branch of Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL) has warned young people not to be tempted to dabble in the occult, after watching the film.
The ATL is concerned about the numbers of children who are visiting satanic websites on the internet, and the fact that no one is monitoring the situation.
Peter Smith, the ATL's general secretary, said he welcomed the theme of Harry Potter, of good triumphing over evil, but he was worried children could over-react.
"There is a darker side to the occult which may disturb vulnerable children and expose them to manipulation by adults," he said.
"Children must be protected from the more extreme influences of the occult and be taught in a responsible and positive way the risks of journeying into the unknown."
November 7, 2001 13:59
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