HAMPSHIRE police are warning Eastleigh residents and school children to stay vigilant.

Their warning comes after a student at Cherbourg Primary School was reportedly followed to school on Wednesday morning.

According to a letter published by the school, the incident took place on Market Street and Derby Road.

A small red van slowed down and a thin middle-aged man, who was bald with a grey beard, stared at the child and seemed to be following her.

When she crossed the road and stopped to call her mother the man pulled his van into a layby

The child then ran into the school and reported the man to an adult.

A school spokesperson said:

"We do not wish to scare our students, but please make sure your child is aware of this incident and, if possible, does not walk to and from school alone.

"Overall, we live in a very safe society, so it is important to balance messages of safety, which can make children feel worried or afraid, with an appreciation that our children can generally feel secure and safe at home"

A police spokesperson said: "This incident was reported to us at 9.04am.

"We have been in touch with the school and asked other schools to share the information.

"Please be vigilant and report any incidents to us."

Anyone with information about the incident should call 101 quoting 44190229618