Warning over abduction threat

Probe after woman offers sweets to schoolgirl
Warnings have gone out to all Saddleworth schools after a woman attempted to abduct a Diggle schoolgirl from the playground by offering her sweets.

It happened as the seven-year-old child played out at lunchtime at Diggle Primary School around 1.10pm yesterday.

Police were called after reports that a woman in a spotted dress went into the playground, grabbed the girl’s arm and tried to entice her into a car.

The child, who was left shocked and upset but unhurt, was surrounded by schoolfriends.

Specially-trained officers are speaking to her and inquiries are continuing.

It is understood there is extra security at the 180 place Sam Road school today, where youngsters aged four to 11 are taught. PCSOs will be on guard in light of the incident.

Chairman of the school’s governors, Mike Rea, said: “Letters of advice went out to parents yesterday and I will be meeting with the head today to discuss this.”

One mother said today: “It’s certainly a worrying time, but the school acted brilliantly and notified parents right away.”

Fellow governor and Saddleworth parish councillor Bob Birse was alerted about the incident by the Chronicle.

He said: “My feelings are of horror. I will be in touch with the school.”

The woman is believed to be in her 20s and possibly drives a blue car.

Saddleworth North ward councillor Derek Heffernan said he was with another Saddleworth head teacher yesterday when the alert went round all local schools.

He added: “They are trying to let parents know about it without frightening them, but young children must understand they don’t accept sweets from strangers.”

The warning letter was issued by Saddleworth police and circulated to all Saddleworth schools.

It said the woman was white, in her late 20s, with brown curly hair wearing a white dress with black spots and driving a blue car.