Clayhanger Common can be lonely and isolated, even on the brightest days, so take care. Image by Pete Hummings.

Somewhat worryingly, a couple of incidents involving men approaching schoolchildren have been reported today (Friday, 2nd December 2016) in the local area that will be of concern to all local residents, but particularly parents.

The first is from a Clayhanger mother, who issued the following alert:

Yesterday two boys on their way to Shire Oak School were approached by a man posing at first as a police officer then a security guard over The Spot (Clayhanger Common).

He told them they had to go a certain way as police were looking for a paedophile and was walking with them.

Luckily a lady taking her kids to school distracted him he then escorted her over the path enabling her to get a good description.

White male dark very short hair around 5ft 6. Tubby build wearing a hi vis with ‘Security’ on the back. He also had on his belt a set of handcuffs and a roll of yellow and black masking tape.

He also had what appears to be a walkie talkie like radio. Please take care walking over there.

Police have been informed.

Also, local schools have been sending out warning text messages this afternoon. This one from Walsall Wood School was shared by a reader:

WARNING – Incident 1st December 2016 at 8.22pm in Brownhills Town Centre, young girl was approached by man, late 50s, large and balding in dark coloured 4×4 type vehicle.

Girl ran away, any info. contact Police 101 quote log no 2119 of 1/12/16.

Additional police patrols will be in Brownhills area this evening.

And this version from Clayhanger Holy Trinity School:

Last night (Thursday 1 December) a suspicious incident took place whereby a young girl was approached in Brownhills town centre by a man in a dark coloured vehicle who shouted “come here”. The girl ran off and did not see the man again.

The incident was reported at 8.22pm so it is unlikely that she was on her way home from school, however we are requesting that schools be aware of the incident and on the look out for the man who is described as being aged in his late 50’s, large build and balding.

He was driving a small, dark coloured 4×4 type vehicle with a spare wheel on the back.

If anyone has any information they are asked to contact West Midlands Police on 101 quoting log number 2119 of 1/12/16.

Additional police patrols will be in the Brownhills area this evening.

Obviously these reports are very disturbing, and I would advise everyone to be cautious but keep a level head – and if you have any information at all, no matter how insignificant you think it may be, do call the police.

Please be careful if you’re out and about in the area by yourself; even in the middle of the day parts of our area can be very isolated, so take care where you go alone.

If you or your children are subject to anything like this, please do contact the police.

If you have any information related to this incident call Walsall Police on 101 or 0345 113 5000, or you may also speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.