Sussex Police has apologised following criticism about its new rape prevention campaign.

Posters encouraging friends to stay together marked the first phase of an on-going campaign by the force.

The image of two women taking a selfie with the “stick together” slogan caused controversy, with many accusing the force of “victim blaming”.

Detective Superintendent Paul Furnell, Head of Public Protection, said: "The way we have gone about this campaign has caused some concern. This was not the intention of our message and for that I apologise.

"We have listened to our partners and we have reached the decision to foreshorten this particular part of the campaign.

"The posters were not intended in any way to blame victims. I understand the concerns that have been raised about the poster and they will be withdrawn. I would like to stress that the posters were well intentioned with the sole aim of preventing people becoming victims of crime.

"Sussex Police is determined to continue to raise awareness of this issue and, with the support of partners, target those who seek to exploit and abuse vulnerable people.

"Together we are committed to tackling all violence against women, girls, men and boys and will continue a campaign that will focus on rape and sexual offences that will deal with consent, perpetrators, prevention, awareness, education and vulnerability."

James Rowlands, Strategic Commissioner for Domestic and Sexual Violence for Brighton and Hove City Council and East Sussex County Council added: "I welcome Sussex Police's decision to withdraw this poster, in recognition of the feedback they have received.

"I look forward to working with them in the future as we, and our partners in Sussex, have a shared commitment to supporting victims, raising awareness about consent and most importantly holding to account those who commit rape or sexual assault."