Man approaches child outside school

The nine-year-old girl was walking home from King’s Park Primary School on the Avenue Road at around 3.10pm on Tuesday, December 4 when she was approached be a man who asked her to take a look inside his bag. The girl walked on and away from the man.

Police are investigating the circumstances of the incident and would like parents to take this opportunity to talk to their children.

Constable Donnelly explained: “There is no need for parents to be alarmed however it is wise to talk about stranger danger and let your child know that they should not talk to strangers.

“It can also be a good idea to make sure your children walk to and from school in groups or share school runs with other parents.

“We work with local schools and youth groups to reinforce these messages.”

King’s Park Principal Terry Shields said the school has a list of golden rules when it comes to child protection.

He commented: “We informed parents about this alleged incident and provided them with a printed reminder of the golden rules.

“Ongoing information is given to children about stranger danger and the children are also encouraged to speak to teachers if they are having issues at home. There are three designated child protection teachers at the school and a designated governor.”