PARENTS have been warned after a number of reports of children being followed by a man in the city.

Police have asked schools in Southampton to share information with parents about the incidents.

Regents Park Community College posted on social media on Friday to warn parents.

The letter from police to the school said: "I am writing to you following a number of reports we have received of children being followed by a man in various locations in the west of the city.

"The incidents have been reported between 27th September and 12th October. Each time the child has reported a man following them as they have been walking or on one occasion, when a child was playing in an adventure play area.

"On two occasions the man has tried to engage in conversation with them.

"Both boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 17 have reported being followed.

"Three incidents occurred between 3.30pm and 4.43pm and a fourth at around 10.45pm.

"A fifth incident has also been reported as taking place on 11th October between 3pm and 3.15pm, but we only have limited information and are we unable to provide a location.

"Incidents have occurred on: Clifton Road, Southampton, a walkway between Warren Crescent and Birch Close, an adventure play area on Olive Road Tremona Road.

"On each occasion the children have done the right thing by reporting it to an adult. No child has engaged with the man or been hurt in any way."

It went on to say officers from Southampton West Neighbourhood Policing team are proactively investigating these incidents and will continue to patrol these areas at key times.

It added: "I think it would be helpful if you could share this information with parents but reassure them that we are taking these reports seriously and that police are actively investigating them.

"It’s important to remember that not every report has been the same and at this time we do not believe they are linked, however, we are keeping an open mind and enquiries are still ongoing. If anyone has any concerns, worries or information, please don’t hesitate to speak to them.

"We understand that these kind of incidents are very concerning for you, parents, 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 or an adult as soon as possible as this will help us deploy officers to the area more quickly."

A spokesperson for the school said: "We have had no reported cases that have been reported to Regents Park, so please be assured that at present we do not have any immediate concerns related to our school location.

"Please remind your child to remain cautious and aware of risks in travelling to and from school, particularly as the evenings become more dark.

"Students walking to school together may feel safer and any student who has concerns should report these immediately. Students can return to school for support if they are worried on leaving site. If any child feels in danger then please make sure your child is aware of how to make an emergency call using 999."