PARENTS have been put on red alert after reports of a man approaching youngsters outside some of the district’s schools.

Police say they are keeping an open mind about the three reported incidents outside Beechview, Millbrook Combined and Wycombe High schools.

A white man driving a red car allegedly approached children and tried to engage them in conversation on January 20 and January 12, police said.

Millbrook headteacher Debra Mansfield sent a letter to parents urging them to reinforce the importance for children to not speak to strangers.

The letter reads: “Following a report issued to all schools, I spoke to children in assembly last week about stranger danger.

“I am sorry to have to inform you that we experienced our own incident. A red car was seen near to the school being driven by a white male.

“He stopped in Gillets Lane and spoke to a Millbrook pupil. The pupil did the right thing and ran away, and immediately reported what happened.

“We have reported the incident to the police, however, I would ask you to speak to your child about this particular danger.

“Please reinforce the importance of not speaking to strangers and walking away if they are approached. You should encourage your children to speak to an adult if they are approached by a stranger and have any concerns.”

Wycombe’s deputy area commander Ch Insp Colin Seaton has backed the message sent out by Millbrook Combined School and moved to reassure parents and schools that Thames Valley Police is investigating.

He told the BFP: “Although we are keeping an open mind as to whether this activity is suspicious, the incidents are being investigated and I would like residents, especially parents, to be aware but not alarmed.

“Use this opportunity to remind children not to speak to strangers and if they are approached by someone they don’t know, to go and tell a trusted adult what has happened as soon as possible.”