Police warning after 'suspicious' man approaches children in street

Police have issued a warning after reports of a man 'acting suspiciously' and approaching several children.

Officers have stepped up patrols in the Manor Drive area of Cleveleys and an investigation has been launched to identify the man involved. Thornton Cleveleys and Poulton Police said they were alerted on Tuesday (May 14) to reports of a man 'approaching several people', including a woman and several children, before making off from the scene.

The force said no-one was harmed. The man is described as Asian, with long dark hair, wearing dark clothes and flip flops and also riding a bike.

READ MORE:

• Police statement after reports man offered children Prime energy drinks at park

• Arson arrest after bar targeted in 'attacks' as police patrols stepped up

Police said they 'understand incidents of this nature can be concerning' and that 'targeted reassurance patrols have been increased in the area at key times'. Residents are being told to expect to see extra officers in the area as the investigation continues.

In a statement issued last night (May 15), a Thornton Cleveleys and Poulton Police spokesperson said: "We are aware of reports of a man acting suspiciously in Cleveleys and can confirm an investigation is underway. Yesterday we received reports of a man approaching several people, including a woman and children, in the Manor Drive area.

"The man made off from the scene on each occasion, with no one harmed. He is described as Asian, with long dark hair, wearing dark clothes and flip flops. He was also riding a bike.

"We understand incidents of this nature can be concerning and want to reassure you an investigation is underway to identify the man involved. Targeted reassurance patrols have been increased in the area at key times and you should expect to see extra officers in the area.

"Anyone with information is urged to email forcecontrolroom@lancashire.police.uk or call 101. Quote log 818 of 15th May 2024."