Campaigners have reacted with horror after it emerged some One Direction fans were urging others to self-harm in reaction to the news Zayn Malik has quit the chart-topping boyband.

The singer, who was raised in East Bowling, shocked fans yesterday when he left the world's biggest band saying he wanted the chance to be "a normal 22-year-old".

Shortly afterwards pictures emerged on social media from fans who appeared to have harmed themselves and were asking others to do so.

VIDEO: HARRY STYLES BREAKS DOWN FOLLOWING ZAYN MALIK'S DECISION TO LEAVE 1D

UPDATE: BRADFORD POP STAR ZAYN MALIK QUITS ONE DIRECTION 'TO BE A NORMAL 22-YEAR-OLD'

Christine Clavering, manager at Bradford Mind, described the self-harm references on social media as a “very dangerous” thing to do.

“There are vulnerable young people out there who may use self-harming as a way of dealing with their emotions,” she said.

“These messages may lead to people who have never used self-harm before to start.

“To encourage someone to do that is wrong, as it can have lasting repercussions for young people, with both physical and mental scars.

“If anyone needs help, we would ask them to contact our helpline, which is open from noon until 9pm, on 01274 594594.”

A spokesman for the Samaritans said they had “not seen any spike in calls” from fans upset over Mailk’s departure, but added that anyone who felt distressed could contact them for advice.

The Bradford Samaritans team can be contacted on 01274 547547. 

GALLERY: ZAYN MALIK THROUGH THE YEARS
Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

A spokesman for children's charity Barnardo's said: "We are horrified at the overnight trending of self-harm tweets after Zayn Malik quit One Direction with teenagers posting pictures of their self-inflicted injuries and encouraging others to follow suit.

"Self-harming sites and social media chat on self-harm are a disturbing aspect of culture which must be addressed and handled sensitively by all those responsible for caring for children.

"Children need a safe place to be able to discuss anything which distresses them and have guidance on how to deal with difficult feelings in a supportive environment.

"Carers, teachers and others and any young person who might be thinking about self-harm are urged to visit the Young Minds website."

A spokeswoman for Young Minds said: "Zayn is an important role model to other young people, as he is prioritising his wellbeing over fame and taking time out to look after himself.

"Young people who feel affected by this news should reach out to other young people and to trusted adults and talk to them about how they feel. It's a loss so like any loss it is about taking care of yourself and being with people who care for you and can support you."

Rachel Burrows, who edits parenting website Netmums. said: "Sadly some youngsters do self-harm to cope with stress, but hashtags like these are dangerous and they can potentially encourage kids to try it.

"The pressures of social media may mean some young fans see it as a way to prove their devotion to Zayn and the band.

"If you think your child is at risk, remind them it isn't what Zayn or the band would want - they want their fans happy and healthy. You can also contact charities like harmless.org.uk, Mind, the National Self Harm Network or the Netmums Parent Supporters for help."

The singer left the band's world tour last week after being "signed off with stress" and returned to the UK after he was forced to defend himself online and declare his love for fiancee Perrie Edwards when pictures emerged of him apparently close to another woman.

The group said it would continue as a four-piece for the tour and record another album later this year.