PARENTS in Wirral have been alerted to a 'potential grooming situation' on social media believed to be targeting young girls in the area.

A message sent to parents of children at Calday Grange Grammar School said it may be taking place on Facebook, Snapchat and Instagram, and urged them to be vigilant and check their child’s privacy settings.

The school sent the message out to parents on Thursday afternoon, and when contacted for comment, said the information had been provided by another school.

The email, sent by the school’s designated safeguarding lead, said:

“Dear Parent/Carer

“It has come to our attention that a potential grooming situation may be taking place on Facebook/Snapchat and Instagram. A person called J roberts is attempting to make contact with younger females. We are unsure if this person is also targetting [sic] young male students and therefore we ask all parents to be vigilant and ensure that their child’s privacy settings are on the highest setting.

“If you become aware of any suspicious activity please report it at: www.ceop.police.uk. [the National Crime Agency website].”

On Friday, a member of staff at Calday Grange refused to reveal which school had originally sent the message, and that the information was just being 'circulated' to parents.

The member of staff declined to comment further.

Merseyside Police, Wirral Council and the National Crime Agency were all contacted for comment.