Police patrols have been increased in South Tyneside after a man tried to drag a child into his car

Officers in South Tyneside are increasing patrols in Jarrow after a man allegedly tried grabbing a schoolgirl.
Inspector John SmithInspector John Smith
Inspector John Smith

A spokeswoman for Northumbria Police has confirmed the girl involved in the incident, which happened on Monday at around 8.30am, is aged 11.

She said: "Enquiries are still ongoing. Extra patrols are in place in the area."

Junction of Salem Street and Randolph Street in JarrowJunction of Salem Street and Randolph Street in Jarrow
Junction of Salem Street and Randolph Street in Jarrow
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The girl was approached by a man in a black SUV in Salem Street, at the junction of Staple Road, while she was walking to school.

The man asked if she would like a lift, she declined and the car drove off before stopping at the next junction at Randolph Street. The man opened the car door and grabbed at the girl's wrist, she managed to push him away and ran home.

The girl was not injured but was left shaken by the incident.

The man is described as white, in his 40s, with a black tattoo on his neck with the words LOVEL written in small letters, he was wearing a black beanie hat and blue jeans.

Junction of Salem Street and Randolph Street in JarrowJunction of Salem Street and Randolph Street in Jarrow
Junction of Salem Street and Randolph Street in Jarrow
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As well as patrolling at school arriving and leaving times, officers are carrying out enquiries and are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

Neighbourhood Inspector, John Smith, said: "We know local parents will quite rightly be concerned about this incident and I would like to let them know we are doing everything we can to trace the car and the man responsible.

"If anyone has any information that can help in our enquiries then we would ask they come forward and pass this on to us."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101 quoting reference 195 250416 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.