Media: Violent cartoon leads to complaints

A cartoon zombie and chainsaw villain provoked a hail of complaints when they were shown on children's television. Parents were furious when ITV screened the violent animation Reboot: To Mend And Defend at 4.40pm.

The Independent Television Commission, has upheld the views of 19 parents who said the scenes scared their children.

Broadcaster Meridian said young children are familiar with ghoulish characters in computer games and films and that fantasy and horror often help youngsters deal with anxieties about growing up. The ITC admitted many children are familiar with such films and games, with or without their parents' consent, but the images were still not suitable for young viewers.

The ITC's decision follows the recent Broadcasting Standards Commission report on the predominance of cartoons in children's broadcasting.