POLICE have stepped up patrols after a suspicious van was spotted following two young boys earlier this week.

The boys, aged 11, were walking along Moss Road and Firdale Road at around 4.30pm on November 30 when an unknown man in a white van began following them.

The van, described as having black lettering and blue graphics, followed the youngsters as they made their way onto Moss Farm before the driver got out of the vehicle.

The boys got home safely, and police were notified of the incident.

They are now appealing for anyone with information to contact them, on 101, or at cheshire.police.uk/tell-us, quoting incident number IML 1424981.

Police are now stepping up patrols in response to the incident to reassure nearby residents.

Winnington and Castle Police posted on social media: “Following a report of a suspicious vehicle in the Moss Farm area yesterday, we've increased our patrols in the area for reassurance to the local community.

“If you see anything suspicious then please ring 101/999 at the earliest opportunity.”