More than a third of parents in the East of England say their children are anxious about terrorism, climate change and Donald Trump's presidency.

A survey carried out by YouGov found a further 24pc thought their children were concerned about the threat of nuclear war.

The research was commissioned by the Mental Health Foundation to uncover the impact world events could be having on young people.

According to YouGov, six in ten British parents noticed their children asking more questions about world issues, while 13pc said children had asked to avoid going on public transport.

The survey of parents with children aged five to 18 revealed:

• 36pc think their children are anxious about threat of terrorism.

• 41pc believe children are concerned about Donald Trump's presidency.

• 34pc say their children are anxious about global warming

YouGov said overall, almost four in 10 UK parents were concerned their children were becoming more anxious about world and national events.

It said nationally, 41 percent of parents think their children are concerned about the threat of terrorism.

Child psychology expert Dr Camilla Rosan, from the Mental Health Foundation, said: 'We often forget that distressing world events can have a significant impact on the mental health of our children.

'This is especially true in the digital age where it's no longer possible to shield our children from worrying or scary news.

'Our poll indicates widespread anxiety among children– especially about the threat of terrorism. But the good news is there is a lot we can do to help children cope with scary events.

'It's important for example to let children know the facts of any given event but also to put things into perspective and let them know they are safe. 'Anxiety about scary news events is normal, but not something children have to deal with alone.'

The survey asked more than 1,800 parents across the UK, including 161 in the East of England.

The mental health foundation said to help children, parents should let them know the facts and discourage overexposure.

It said a news blackout is 'rarely helpful', adding that children should be reassured they are safe.