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The site has been a runaway success despite being started on a shoestring budget in October last year when 24,000 UK schools went online. It has now brought about thousands of happy reunions all over the country and even a handful of weddings. But there is growing concern over the way some old pupils refer to their teachers. A dozen members with complaints of libellous comments have approached a union. One primary teacher told the Observer he was appalled to have had a school governor ring to tell him he was being labelled a sex offender. 'I was offended, deeply shocked,' he said. 'I have taken a lot of stick over the years, that is the nature of working with children, but this was a step beyond the pale as far as I am concerned. Let's not forget that mud sticks and in this job more than most. "It is atrocious that the owners of this Website did not think of this when they gave persons free rein to write whatever lies they want. Our school records did not even recognise the name of the lad who was supposed to have written it. It was a hoax and the site should be closed down with immediate effect." Following complaints by the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT), the site installed a "report abusive message" button that automatically appears next to each entry. Anyone spotting an offensive or nasty comment can then alert operators who will remove it. But a search by the Observer picked up numerous insulting comments, although these were in the minority among inoffensive jokes and even compliments. There were also allegations of alcoholism, physical abuse and thinly veiled hints of paedophilia. David Hart, president of the NAHT, said: "We did speak to the Website organisers after we had about 12 complaints from members. The action they have taken is useful and they are clearly no more keen on these messages appearing than we are. 'However, if this "abuse button" does not do the trick then we will be looking to have the site scrapped altogether.' The National Union of Teachers said the situation was being closely monitored. 'We are keeping a regular eye on this site and listening to our members. Should any of them come to us then we will have no hesitation in going for legal action.' Steve Pankhurst said abusive messages would be removed immediately and the site would assist any attempt at prosecution. "When a member is adding a message they are given a warning to remain within our codes of conduct." He added: 'FriendsReunited is not somewhere to let off steam about ex-teachers. Not only is this inconsiderate and hurtful, it may also be illegal.' - Observer News
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