SECURITY has been stepped up and police have been on patrol near St Laurence School in Bradford on Avon, after a teenage girl was approached by a van driver on her way home.

The 13-year-old ran off after being approached by a man in a silver grey van as she walked along Downs View after leaving school, at around 3.35pm.

A school spokesman said: “The man deliberately swerved in front of her, got out and opened a sliding door. The student did exactly the right thing and immediately left the area as quickly as possible and reported the incident to her parents.”

The man is described as white, in his 50s, about six feet tall, with receding dark hair and a large beer belly. He was wearing shorts and a white vest. Parents or pupils who saw the van or have any further information are asked to contact the police, either directly on 101 or via the school.

The incident on Wednesday was promptly reported to Wiltshire Police who are investigating and who have put extra officers on patrol around the school at the beginning and end of the day - Downs View is only yards from one of the school's main gates.

A police spokesman said: “A 13-year-old girl had been walking along Downs View in Bradford on Avon when a man in a silver van pulled up beside her and got out of the van.

"The man then opened the sliding door to the van and appeared to be acting suspiciously.

"The girl ran off and the man drove off in the direction of Winsley.

“We’d encourage anyone to report suspicious incidents via 101, or if a crime is in progress call 999. We’d also like to encourage parents/carers to talk to their children about the importance of not talking to strangers.”

St Laurence also warned pupils this week never to accept lifts from strangers, to walk with other students wherever possible and to avoid using mobile phones or headphones when walking, to ensure they are aware of their surroundings.

“Students should also report any suspicious activities or concerns they have to either parents or staff at school,” the school said.