PARENTS in Hexham have been warned to be vigilant after reports of a man attempting to encourage children into a van.

Alerts from Queen Elizabeth High School referred to an incident on Market Street involving a black Transit van.

Northumbria Police confirmed they had received reports of a suspicious man in the area.
A spokeswoman said: "Shortly after 11.40am on Wednesday, police received a report of a suspicious man in Hexham.

"It had been reported on Tuesday at around 3.45pm, near the Abbey, a man had gestured for two teenage girls to get in his van before driving off.

"The teenagers were unharmed but understandably shaken by the incident."

A letter to parents from executive headteacher Graeme Atkins said: "A message has gone out to our students about the incident, along with a reminder about safe practice coming to and going from school.

"Please also talk to your son or daughter about the importance of taking safe routes, which have good visibility and are not isolated."

Anyone with information is asked to contact officers on 101, quoting reference number 341 of September 11.