A 'SUSPICIOUS' man has reportedly been seen approaching children in a car.

Police are investigating the series of incidents that have taken place across Southampton and Eastleigh.

The incidents were reported between November 17 and November 25.

Each time the child involved has described that a man in a car approached them as they were walking, and asked them if they wanted a lift or tried to engage in conversation with them.

Both boys and girls have been approached and no child has got into a vehicle or been hurt in anyway.

Incidents have occurred on:

  • Newtown Road, Southampton,
  • Satchell Lane, Hamble-Le-Rice
  • Wildern Lane, Hedge End
  • Lower Northam Road, Hedge End
  • Hamble Lane, Bursledon
  • Ashley Crescent, Southampton
  • Sholing Road, Southampton
  • Middle Road, Southampton
  • Wakefield Road, Southampton

Incidents have occurred in the morning before school, or on their way home after school.

The Wakefield Road incident however, occurred on a Saturday.

Officers from both Southampton and Eastleigh are working with the schools in these areas and have increased patrols.

A police spokesperson said: "We would like to reassure parents that we are taking these reports seriously. Not every report has been the same and therefore we are looking at all lines of enquiry to identify similarities in the descriptions of the car and man that have been provided.

"We know there maybe similar reports of suspicious incidents that have occurred in other areas of Southampton. We continue to regularly review all similar incidents to identify patterns as part of the ongoing investigation process.

"We understand that these kind of incidents are very concerning for parents, schools and children. It is important to stay alert but not alarmed, remind children that they should not get into anyone’s car, or go with anyone they do not know, and to report the incident to us as soon as possible.