Scots schoolchildren as young as ten years old have been taught about Old Firm rivalry in a bid to crack down on sectarianism.

St Ninian’s Primary in Gourock, Inverclyde invited anti-sectarianism charity Nil by Mouth to the school as part of a project to educate young pupils about the causes and impact of bigotry.

They learnt about the Old Firm rivalry between Celtic and Rangers, and the history of the Irish Tricolour flag and the Red Hand of Ulster.

Campaigners hope a new generation can grow up to turn the tide on sectarianism, which has prompted renewed concern after a series of clashes in Glasgow at marches and parades.

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Caitlin Train, aged ten, said: "We have learned a lot about sectarianism and we looked at the rivalry between Celtic and Rangers.

"We looked at bigotry and what happens to people because of it.

"We all have a right as children to be safe and have our rights respected.

"Sectarianism needs to stop.

"We are all equal and everyone has rights."

Using Teresa Dreslin's novel Divided City, the pupils have been learning about symbols, flags, football clubs and organisations often used to sow the seeds of sectarianism in society.

There was no stone left unturned by the primary seven and the joint primary six and seven class at they explored the confrontational issues that fuel sectarianism.

Class teacher Rebecca Oliver put them into groups to learn about the origins of the Irish Tricolour and the Red Hand of Ulster.

They also looked at football clubs Celtic and Rangers and the Loyal Orange Lodge.

Jamie Lithgow, education officer at charity Nil by Mouth, said he was delighted to speak to the schoolchildren and get his anti-sectarian message across.

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Mr Lithgow said: "We have been going for 20 odd years now but the charity is needed now more than ever.

"We can never be complacent about sectarianism.

"The school in Inverclyde are very supportive of what we do."

Lesley McCabe, head teacher at St Ninian’s, said: "The workshops from Nil by Mouth are very worthwhile and enhance the children's learning opportunities, raising further awareness of the issues surrounding sectarianism within our society.

"They enable the children to address their personal attitude, views and experiences, challenge other people's in a non-confrontational way and it empowers them as we develop their skills for learning, life and work."