PARENTS have been assured there are 'no heightened risks at this time' following reports of a man acting suspiciously near a school in Winsford.

Cheshire Police responded to an incident on Monday, July 13, after they were informed of a man acting suspiciously on Kingsley Walk.

Subsequently, several schools in the area contacted parents warning them to be vigilant.

Some schools in the area also posted warning messages through their social media channels.

A Facebook post from St Chad's CE Primary School said: “Please can all parents and carers note the following message we have received this evening from another local school:

“ALERT: please take care with children. It has been reported that a stranger has been acting suspiciously around the school. Police have been informed.

“Please be extra vigilant when walking children to and from school.”

After investigating the incident, Cheshire Police have confirmed that reports of an attempted abduction are false.

Detective Sergeant John Lyons, from Northwich Local Policing Unit, said: “I am aware of rumours on social media and concerns from local schools that the incident in question was the attempted abduction of a child.

“I can confirm that following a thorough investigation this was found not to be the case and I would like to reassure parents in Winsford that there are no heightened risks at this time.”

The incident is the second stranger danger scare in Winsford this month.

On July 3, parents with children in Oak View Academy received the worrying text informing them that a pupil had been approached by a couple who asked them to get into the car.

The text said: “URGENT – one of our pupils has just been seen stopped by a couple in a silver car and asked to get in. This happened near St John’s estate.

“The child is fine but we are asking all parents to please vigilant. Thank you.”

Cheshire Police is now urging residents to report any suspicious activity in the area.

Detective Lyons said: “I would like to thank local residents who made contact with information and would encourage anyone who believes they have witnessed suspicious behaviour to contact us on 101 or use 999 in the case of an emergency.”