Glebe child snatch attempt

Mar 8 2013 by Ross Dunn, Irvine Herald

The hunt for a man who tried to snatch a child after school has been stepped up.

The man, seen driving a silver coloured car, attempted to lure the 11-year-old Glebe Primary pupil into his car.

Reports suggest that the man tried to get the senior pupil to go and play video games with him. The boy refused and he drove off.

The boy then returned home and told his family about the encounter.

The incident took place on Broomlands Drive at its junction with Tarryholme Drive in Irvine on Friday, February 22 at around 3.15pm.

Glebe Primary’s headteacher Francine MacKenzie issued a warning letter to parents last week.

She said: “There will be a police presence around the school for the next few days and I have spoken to the senior pupils about the need for vigilance on their journeys to and from school. Children should be encouraged to use safe (busy) routes home and should travel with others where possible.”

She added: “As you know, the safety of every pupil at Glebe Primary is my prime concern and I will keep you informed of any further developments.”

A spokesman for Strathclyde Police said: “Extensive enquiries are ongoing in the local area to trace the man responsible and we’re working closely with schools to make sure children understand the importance of not talking to strangers who approach them.”

A North Ayrshire Council spokesman said: “Our prime concern is the safety of our pupils. A letter was issued to parents on Tuesday, February 26, outlining how they can ensure their children are as safe as possible when travelling to and from school.

“We continue to work with Strathclyde Police to address the matter.”