More than 2,000 children in Bradford run away from home each year, according to The Children’s Society.

The charity says they often flee the comforts of home to escape abuse and neglect.

It has started its Safe At Christmas Appeal to highlight the issue and say one in nine children are hurt when they run away from home, and they become more prone to sexual exploitation or get involved in gangs.

In Keighley, The Children’s Society’s project Hand in Hand works with vulnerable young people, and is calling on people to donate to the cause.

Emma Holmes, programme manager said: “Unfortunately we are seeing too many young people in Bradford on the streets and at risk of serious harm by adults looking to exploit their vulnerability.”

To support the appeal, visit childrenssociety.org.uk/safe or donate by texting CHILD to 70020 to donate £3.