PATROLS have been stepped up after a man approached a 14-year-old girl and asked her to get into his van near a Wirral school.

Police alerted schools in the area following the incident, which happened on Mount Road, close to Prenton High School for Girls, on Friday, November 9.

Officers were called to reports that a teenage girl was walking along the street at around 11am when a white van stopped alongside her.

The driver of the van - believed to be in his early 40s – asked the girl to get in and when she refused, repeated the request.

The girl then quickly left the scene and alerted the police.

Merseyside Police said an officer had attended Prenton High School to provide reassurance after the incident, with other schools in the area were also notified.

Letters have also been sent home to parents, while police patrols have been increased up as a result of the incident.

Sergeant Peter Grant said "This must have been an upsetting incident for the girl. Although she was not injured, we take such incidents very seriously.

“I would like to reassure the public that patrols in the area have been increased and schools in the local area have been made aware by our safer schools officer.”

Police have launched an appeal for information following the incident and have issued a description of the van driver.

He is described as white, in his early 40s and of medium build with short, dark grey hair and a dark grey beard.

Wirral Council said it was standard practice for schools to make parents aware of issues that may affect the safety of their children, and said the council will support the police wherever possible.

A spokesman said: “If schools have particular concerns, we are available to provide advice and guidance.”

Anyone with information should call Merseyside Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.