Police in Longridge are warning parents and children of men offering sweets to children outside primary and secondary schools.

PC Naznin Patel, from Ribble Valley policing, sent a warning of men in glasses in a black Ford Transit van, telling children that treats are in the back of their van.

Children have been seen going around to see inside the back of these vans.

PC Patel said: “Just a reminder now that schools have started, we have had teachers from primary and secondary schools along with parents of kids who attend schools mention to us that there are reports of men driving a black Transit van wearing glasses and enticing kids by saying they have sweets in the back of their van.

“As convincing as it might sound to your children, please reinforce the message as this is something we have heard happening year after year.”

They are asking parents to remind children to not speak to people in the street inside or outside of school time.

A Lancashire Police spokesperson said: "We received a report of children being approached by an adult in St Wilfred’s Terrace, Longridge at around 8.40am on September 30.

"We know that this may seem concerning to hear, but we want to reassure you that enquiries are ongoing into the report, and we have increased patrols in the area."

If parents or children come across anything suspicious along these lines they are urged to ring 999 and make a note of the registration, time, date and the driver/passenger of the vehicle if possible.

If you have any information or footage that can assist enquiries, contact police on 101, quoting log 0223 of October 5.