Simon Pegg helps Gloucestershire students

​A group of teenagers tackling bullies have been given support from a Hollywood star.

Jodie Danks, 17, of Brockworth Enterprise School, contacted former pupil Simon Pegg in the hope he would offer them some advice.

The Year 13 student, a member of “Vision”, a student support network,  was delighted when the actor got in touch.

Jodie, who is head girl, said: “I emailed his agent through his website, and he did respond quite quickly.

During her interview with the Star Trek and Spaced star Jodie asked: Can you define bullying in your own words?

Simon replied: “Bullying means using strength or power to intimidate or harm someone weaker or in a weaker position than you.

“It’s important to send the message out to those who bully and intimidate that their actions are unacceptable.”

When asked if he had been bullied at school Simon replied: “To some degree yes but not to the extent that some people do.

“I think most people experience bullying at some point, whether it be subtle or overt. Bullying isn’t just about stealing another person's lunch money. It can be mental or physical, insidious or blatant.”

So what does Simon think of bullies?

“I have complete disapproval towards bullying but also to some degree, pity. Bullies are weak and pathetic,” he said.

And his advice for seeking help?

“If you don’t it will simply continue.” he said. “Be strong. You are not being a snitch, you are protecting yourself and others.”

He advised victims of bullying to talk to Vision or a teacher.

“If you're not sure who to speak to at school, speak to a parent or even a friend. The important thing is not to suffer in silence,” he said.

Jodie and her team are also delighted after being nominated for a prestigious award for their efforts combating bullying.

They were put up for the Diana Award by deputy head teacher Stuart Langworthy.

Mr Langworthy explained the group had become a big part of the school’s support structure.

He said: “If students are suffering from low level bullying they are referred to this group who listen to them and then carry out restorative justice to try and put the situation right.

“They have been very successful in dealing with the small number of cases that have been referred to them – bullying is not a major issue at all at the school and it is partly because of this group that it is at such a low level.”