DETECTIVES probing an attempt to snatch a Thurrock schoolgirl in Grays on Wednesday (26 April) have issued an update on their investigation - and have ruled out the involvement of a black van despite it being part of an initial report.

The incident took place in Long Lane, Grays, at 7.15am on Wednesday, prompting a warning from nearby schools - which has now been rep[eated by headteachers to students across the wider borough.

A police statement issued today says: "A girl reported being approach by a man in a black van who then tried to bring her into his vehicle. 

"Thankfully, she was not harmed and was able to leave the area. Officers have spoken to the girl and carried out a number of enquiries. 

"We have eliminated any involvement of a black van as part of our investigation.

"We will continue to investigate the circumstances around the incident.

"We need anyone who witnessed the incident or has dashcam or doorbell footage of it to get in touch.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website where you can use our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

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"Visit https://www.essex.police.uk/digital101to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on Twitter at @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

"Please cite incident 237 of 26 April."