Police officers have been carrying out patrols near a school after receiving reports about a driver of a white van speaking to children inappropriately.
Northumbria Police say there were reports of two separate incidents before half term in the area of Gosforth East Middle School, in Gosforth, Newcastle.
It was said that the driver had been talking to youngsters as they walked to school.
Officers are now carrying out an investigation to establish the nature of the alleged incidents and have been patrolling the area to reassure parents.
A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: “We can confirm we received reports before half term about two separate incidents where the driver of a white van had spoken to children inappropriately as they walked to school in Gosforth.
"Our neighbourhood officers visited the school and have been carrying out extensive inquiries to try and identify the van in question, and its driver, so we can establish the exact nature of the incidents.
"Those inquiries have included trawling CCTV and deploying officers in the surrounding area at similar times to when the other incidents have allegedly taken place.
"We are yet to identify the driver but have continued to patrol the surrounding area to reassure parents and pupils at the school when officers have been available.
"Anyone who has information that could help police is asked to contact police on 101 quoting log 420 22/10/20.”
A spokesperson for Gosforth East Middle School added: "Two reports were made to Northumbria Police, on October 21 and 22, of suspicious behaviour of an individual near school. Parents were advised of this at the time and invited to discuss any concerns with our headteacher.
"Since then, Northumbria Police have increased their presence in the area and, while their investigation continues, there have been no further incidents of this kind.
"We would like to reassure parents that the safety of pupils is our number one priority and we will continue to liaise with the police and local authority.
"If you witness any suspicious activity or have any information about these incidents, please contact the police."
