WARNINGS have been given after reports of children being followed or approached by strangers in Trafford.

Last week a 15-year-old girl was approached by a man in a car in Urmston while she was on her way back home late at night.

Two of the incidents involved a man approaching pupils on foot, while the other involved three men in a blue car. They started to follow a pupil and asked her to get into the car but she ran back home.

Warnings have already been issued to pupils and parents by head teachers at three Ashton-on-Mersey High School, Sale; Urmston Grammar School and St Hilda’s Primary School, Stretford who contacted parents following incidents.

Cllr Jane Baugh, Trafford Council executive member for children’s services, said: “We are thankful that these incidents are rare but we would urge pupils and parents to take care, especially now the nights are drawing in.

“All pupils deserve to feel safe travelling to and from their place of learning.”

Inspector Christopher Sutcliffe, of GMP’s Trafford borough said: “Understandably, parents will be worried by these reports but I can reassure them that we take calls like this very seriously.

“Each call is investigated independently and at this stage there is nothing to suggest any of the incidents are linked.

“In response to the calls local patrols were directed to patrol the area and we have been carrying out a number of enquiries including reviewing CCTV.

“I would encourage parents to speak to their children about keeping safe when out and about and to remind them never to go off with a stranger, accept gifts from a stranger, or get in to a vehicle with anyone they don’t know.”

Anyone with information should phone police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.