MORE than 100 cases of female genital mutilation (FGM), were recorded in Yorkshire and Humberside between April 2016 and March 2017.

Figures released yesterday by the NSPCC showed there were 265 cases recorded in the North of England by the NHS, 105 of which were in Yorkshire and Humberside.

The charity's FGM helpline has been contacted by more than 420 people concerned about the issue - which is a violent form of child abuse and has been illegal in the UK for over 30 years.

To mark today's International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (TUES), the NSPCC has urged people to break the silence surrounding FGM and contact the helpline for support and advice if they are worried a child is at risk.

One adult who contacted the helpline said: "She used to be a very outgoing and bubbly child but since coming back from Africa she has become really quiet and lost a lot of weight. She sometimes tells me that her stomach is hurting and that she can’t urinate properly. I don’t know what has triggered the change in her, but I feel with all the publicity surrounding FGM that this needs to be raised."

John Cameron, NSPCC Head of Helplines, said: "There is absolutely no place for this horrendous practice in society.

"Religious, social or cultural reasons are sometimes given as justification for FGM. However, FGM is child abuse. It's dangerous and a criminal offence. Many people don’t report their concerns because they are ashamed and worried about betraying friends and family. That’s why it’s so important that communities, families and professionals work together and speak up to help break the silence that surrounds FGM. Only then can we reduce the number of females exposed to it, and give victims the confidence to speak out."

Anyone concerned that a child is at risk of FGM can phone 0800 028 3550 or email fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk