Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield reveal ‘concerns’ over video game sensation Pokemon Go

Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield have revealed their fears about the potential dangers posed by the smartphone game Pokemon Go.

On This Morning today, the pair heard claims that perverts could tempt children into danger by using a "lure" which can make kids think virtual monsters are hiding in isolated spots.

The game uses "augmented reality" to make it look as if Pokemon are hiding in the real world, inviting players to find and snares the beasties by walking around cities.

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But gamers can also place a Pokemon lure to draw the creatures to a certain location, prompting fears that paedos could tempt kids into their clutches.

This function has already been used in several robberies in America.

"I was listening to an interview with a lady who went out with her son yesterday,"; Holly said,

Pokemon Agogo: Your guide to the smash hit video game

Pokemon is a Japanese word which means 'pocket monster'. The gaming giant Nintendo first introduced Pokemon to the world in 1995.

The latest title is an "augmented reality game". To play, gamers look through their smartphone camera to see the cute monsters superimposed on their view of the real world.

Players must walk around towns and cities to find Pokemon, which hide in various locations. They then collect the monsters and can use them to fight against other players in "gyms", which tend to be landmarks such as the The Shard in London. To play at these gyms, players must physically visit them.

A "lure" can be set to draw Pokemon to a certain location, prompting fears this function could be misused.

"They explored areas of their town that they've never been to. She said he was constantly looking down and walking into roads at worst.

"He wasn't aware of his surroundings."

Phillip then asked NSPCC safety expert Emily Cherry if there was a genuine risk to kids.

"There will always be that dark side," he said.

"There are people who have fallen off cliffs who have taken selfies. Isn't it down to the fact that there will always be a darker side, or an idiot?"

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Cherry then explained the concept of a Pokemon lure, prompting Holly to exclaim: "I'd be concerned at that."

In a statement, an NSPCC spokesman said: ‘It’s deeply troubling that the app’s owners have ignored many warning signals and well documented child safety concerns.

"It would have been better if they had taken time to reflect on these and put their young users first.

"Pokemon Go is setting a precedent as the most successful augmented reality game on the market. It’s very disappointing that child safety isn’t at its heart."