Further appeal for dashcam footage following suspicious circumstances in St Helens

UPDATE

Officers investigating reports of suspicious circumstances in St Helens on Thursday, 13 December, are now appealing for dashcam footage.

Anyone who was in or around the Gaskell Street/Sankey Street area is asked to come forward with any information to help with our enquiries. 

Previously published 13 December 2018:- 

Merseyside Police can confirm officers have received a report of suspicious circumstances in St Helens this morning (Thursday, 13 December).

At around 8.20am, an 11-year-old boy was walking to school along Gaskell Street / Sankey Street when he reported he was approached by a man travelling in a white transit van.

The man urged the child to get in before he ran off and reported the incident to his school, who contacted police.

Enquiries are at an early stage but enquiries are on-going to establish the full circumstances and anyone with information is asked to contact police.

The man is described as white, in his mid-20s, with facial stubble, wearing a grey hoodie.

Detective Inspector Steve Ball said: “I would like to reassure the local community that these incidents will be fully investigated and although this must have been upsetting, the child did the right thing by running away and telling an adult.

“There will be an increased police presence in this area at the end of the school day and CCTV continues to be examined.

“Neighbourhood officers regularly visit schools to work alongside teachers in giving children appropriate stranger danger advice and it is encouraging to see that the message clearly sticks. We would encourage anyone who witnesses such incidents to contact police as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact @MerPolCC or 101 quoting ref 0177 of 13.12.18 or @CrimestoppersUK via social media or 0800 555 111.