Explode, which uses cartoons to get its message across, was due to be handed out in schools in Portsmouth this month. But education chiefs were aghast when they read the first copy, which shows photos of condoms and talks openly about alcohol, drugs and sex.

The magazine, which was produced in partnership with the YMCA, also gives advice on issues such as healthy eating and coping with stress.

But Eleanor Scott, the council’s executive member for education, said: “There are fairly graphic references to drunken vomiting and pictures of condoms. It says children may be worried that everybody else they know is having sex — if children that age were, then I think I’d be phoning social services.” She added that she could not allow the magazine to be handed out.

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