Vigilante warning as man in van approaches children

Villagers have been warned not to take the law into their own hands if they mount patrols after reports that a man in a van has been approaching children.

Police are investigating three recent reports involving a man in a dark Ford Transit van in the Metheringham and Scopwick areas of Lincolnshire.

Lincolnshire Police said it was aware of discussions about residents undergoing patrols in response to the incidents.

"While we understand the strength of feeling around keeping children safe, we would urge anyone considering taking part in patrols to act responsibly, remain within the law and avoid confronting or attempting to detain anyone based on suspicion or unverified information," it added.

The first report related to a child being approached by a man in a Transit van on Main Street in Scopwick at about 22:00 BST on 14 October.

The two other reported incidents of the same nature took place in Metheringham - one on Dunston Road at about 22:35 on 15 October and another on Princes Street at about 18:55 on 16 October.

Local officers from Hykeham and Bracebridge Heath Police said: "We want to reassure residents that we take all reports involving the safety of children seriously, and inquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding these incidents."

They said residents may see a "heightened police presence in the area".

The force urged parents and carers to "speak with their children about staying safe when out and about, including what to do if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe".

This included moving to a safe place, seeking help from a trusted adult and calling 999 if they believed they were in immediate danger.

Nearby residents have also been asked to get in touch with the force if they may have witnessed anything suspicious or had CCTV footage.

Community beat sergeant for North Kesteven, Alex Taylor, said: "We ask that residents remain on alert, look out for one another and allow the investigation to progress.

"We recognise how important it is for families to feel safe in their communities.

"We will continue to assess the information available to us and take appropriate action when necessary."

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