CHILDREN from any background in Warrington could be at risk of sexual exploitation, safeguarding bosses have warned.

According to Warrington Borough Council, there are currently 64 children who are considered vulnerable to exploitation in the town.

While 22 are in some form of care, 42 live at home, and senior officials are warning over the use social media like Skype and Facebook.

Fiona Cowan, senior conference review manager for families and wellbeing, said: "(Exploitation) is not just about gangs of males abusing children.

"It could be individual males, it could be individual females.

"Children from any kind of background could be abused."

The comments were made during a Town Hall meeting of the protecting the most vulnerable policy committee on Tuesday night.

It was discussing safeguarding procedures in the town, in response to the inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Rotherham, where 1,400 children were abused over a 16-year period.

A presentation was given by Mrs Cowan, and Cheshire Police, on what can be learned from the inquiry.

Child sexual exploitation - or grooming - refers to the behaviour that leads to sexual abuse happening, such as the promise of gifts or favours.

Some victims believe they are in a relationship and refuse help, according to Dave Aspinall, child sexual exploitation investigator at Cheshire Police.

The meeting heard one girl in Warrington was groomed by neighbours until she thought it was 'inevitable' she would be abused.

"It's amazing how trusting children are of an adult they don't know," added Mrs Cowan.

Taxi drivers refused a licence to operate in Warrington were also highlighted as a possible concern.

In Rotheram, taxi drivers were implicated in trafficking children.

Due to a licensing loophole, anyone who is refused a taxi driver's licence based on background checks by the council can obtain a licence from a neighbouring authority, and drive in the town.

"That is a concern because of the Rotherham issue and prevalence of taxis," added Mr Aspinall.

The council says it has a 'very clear strategy' to stop children from being exploited, working alongside partners like the youth offending service, NSPCC and Catch 22.

The committee said it felt 'reassured' by the presentation, and that 'positive' safeguarding work had been highlighted.