A WINCHESTER school today sparked a security alert after a man was spotted taking photographs of children in the playground.

The police were called and staff searched the area but the stranger had disappeared.

Kings Worthy Primary School, which has around 390 pupils, sent out an email to parents this afternoon.

Sarah Vittle, co-headteacher, said in the email to parents: “Today at lunchtime a man was seen, taking photographs of children playing, from the path at the top gate. As soon as staff were alerted, the police were informed and staff searched the area. We have given a detailed description of the man to the police. We have requested that the local PCSOs be present within the school area at 3.30 today.

“The children have been reminded this afternoon about ‘stranger danger’. If your child walks home alone and you wish to make a different arrangement for this afternoon, please contact the school office immediately.

“We don’t wish to cause alarm and this incident is being investigated, however we are taking it seriously and would encourage you to be vigilant this weekend and during the forthcoming schools holidays.”

Ms Vittle declined to speak to the Chronicle.

But in a statement she said: “The safety of the children at school is paramount. Today children reported a man passing the school taking photographs. The school has reported this to the police and have issued a note to parents in order to make them aware.”

A mum, who did not want to be named, said:"It is very worrying I do not know what the school is doing, there were meant to be PCSOs here but there is no-one around."

In a statement the police said: "Police were called at 1.13pm this afternoon to a report of a man acting suspiciously outside Kings worthy Primary School. The man was reportedly taking photos.

He was described as: White, Grey hair and balding on top, glasses, wearing a red, chequered shirt and blue cardigan.

"Police were deployed and searched the area however no one matching this description was located."

Inspector Jon Turton said: “We appreciate this incident may worry the local community. We will be following up the investigation with the school to ensure staff, parents and children are reassured.”