THREE youngsters have been praised by Rossendale police for their quick response after a man tried to entice them into his car.

The children, aged four, 11 and 12, were waiting at a bus stop in a lay-by in Blackburn Road, Rising Bridge, at 2pm yesterday when a grey saloon car pulled up alongside them.

The driver of the car opened the passenger door and told them to "get in quick".

The trio, who have not been named by police, ran away and informed an adult of what had happened, who then contacted police.

Officers interviewed the youngsters and have issued a description of the man and the car, which they say could have been a Vauxhall or a Rover.

They have appealed for anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

Police have also asked parents to be vigilant and ensure they know the whereabouts of their children as much as possible, though they have stressed that no other similar incidents have been reported.

Inspector Roger Ravenscroft, of Rawtenstall Police, said: "The children behaved very responsibly. They were very sensible and did exactly the right thing in running away and telling an adult about what had happened.

"This is the only incident of this kind that has been brought to our attention and I would like to think that it's very much a one-off.

"However, I would like to ask all parents to be vigilant and, of course, to know where their children are, especially during the school holidays, though we know this can be difficult."

The man in the car has been described as aged between 30 and 40 with close-shaven hair, slightly balding, and of medium build.

He wore a black leather jacket and had a distinctive gold ring in his left ear.

Anyone with information should call police on 01706 215242 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.