Pupils advised to walk home in groups for safety after child-snatch attempt

PUPILS were urged to walk to and from school in groups after a man reportedly tried to entice a girl into his van.

The 12-year-old victim was approached by the suspect as she walked along Forest Front at Butts Ash, on her way to Noadswood School in Dibden Purlieu, around 8am on Monday.

A van pulled up on a gravel track and the driver asked her to get inside, but she refused and ran off. The local neighbourhood police team was later alerted to the incident, which is being treated as suspicious.

The vehicle was described as dark blue with a dent on the right-hand side of the back door and lots of scratches.

In the wake of the incident, the North Road school published an “urgent notice” on its website on Tuesday and also shared its warning for pupils and parents to other nearby schools.

“Please be aware that yesterday (Monday 19th November) a female pupil was approached by an adult driving a van. She was spoken to and asked to get in the van,” the notice said.

“Pupils will be given this information during lessons this afternoon. We will reinforce the ‘stranger danger’ message and advise pupils to walk home in groups.

“The police are aware and should be contacted should your child report any concerns.

“We will endeavour to ensure that no child leaves the site alone this afternoon, pupils may gather in the school hall at 3pm if they are concerned about their journey home where we will make suitable arrangements.”

Anyone who has information about Monday’s incident or any concerns should contact Hampshire Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.