POLICE have launched an investigation after a child was approached by "an older male" near a school.

Officers will be patrolling outside Ringwood School today to reassure pupils and parents.

A spokesman for the school said a Year 7 pupil was approached before school started on Wednesday November 11.

He added: "This incident happened to coincide with the day that local Police Officers were at the school gates for an awareness raising event. The police presence was not related to the incident and the student arrived at school and following disclosure of the incident, their parents and the police were formally informed.

"This incident is now being investigated by Hampshire Constabulary who will conduct reassurance patrols at the start and end of school this week. Should you have any information please contact them on 101 and quote reference number 44200436994."