PARENTS of children at a Stanford-le-Hope secondary school have been advised to remind the students to take care when out and about near the school site after reports of a suspicious car in the local area whose driver tried to encourage a young person to get into their vehicle.

A message from St Clere's Shool headteacher Ashleigh Hughes says: "We have received a report of a suspicious car in the local area whose driver tried to encourage a young person to get into their car. In this instance no one was harmed but I would like to alert parents to be extra vigilant.

"We are concerned enough to inform the police and staff will be in the local community at the end of the school day. Please speak to your children about safety outside the school.

"We don't want to scare children but we will be reminding all pupils in form tomorrow (Friday, 6 May) of how to stay safe."

The school on Butts Lane has issued the following advice:

• Try to always be with another person when outside of school.
• If anything or anyone seems suspicious go to a place of safety such as a shop.
• If you cannot contact anyone at home then telephone the school on 01375 641001.