A regional newspaper’s role in exposing perverts has been praised by the parents of murdered schoolgirl Sarah Payne.

They highlighted the pioneering paedophile ‘register’ held at the Bournemouth Daily Echo for its vital role. It was the first of its kind in the UK.

The paper, as part of a Protect our Children Campaign, has a file of all previous paedophile and abuse cuttings which interested groups can ask to see.

Speaking after a fringe meeting at the Conservative Party conference, Michael and Sara Payne said they hoped the momentum started in Dorset four years ago would continue in their campaign for Sarah’s Law, including a national register of convicted child sex offenders.

Sara Payne said: “We would like to say ‘Well done’ to the Daily Echo and all the people in this area that supported you.

“You have proved that vigilante attacks are few and far between when the public is kept informed.”

Home Secretary Jack Straw has ruled out allowing controlled public access to information about sex offenders in their area but a central demand in the News of the World’s “For Sarah” campaign, and the couple’s fight to win a new “For Sarah” law, is a national register of convicted paedophiles. The Paynes vowed to fight on.

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