POLICE are investigating after confidential information about children at risk in Southend was discovered on a computer in Surrey.

The data was found on an old computer used by Southend Council, which the authority had asked a contractor to wipe clean.

A man who bought the computer handed it over to Surrey Police.

Southend Council has set up a hotline for anyone concerned their details could have been made public, which will be open from now until Monday during the hours of 1pm to 6pm.

The number is 01702 215 983.

* Full report in Monday's Echo