POLICE were outside a Hampshire school yesterday after a man was spotted trying to get a young pupil into a van.

An investigation has been launched after a man, who was said to be in his mid-30s, drove onto the premises of Hamble School in a blue van with dark wing mirrors.

The small, slightly built, white man then beckoned over a Year 8 student to get into his "dirty-looking" van.

An alert yesterday from Hamble School said: “This morning, a blue, dirty looking van with dark wing mirrors and a small, slightly built, white male in his mid-30’s in the driver’s seat came on to the Hamble School site and beckoned a Year 8 student into his van.

"The police have been informed and are going to interview the child.

"At the moment, we feel it would be prudent for our neighbouring schools to be on alert for this vehicle.”

A police spokesperson confirmed to the Daily Echo that a local PCSO will be outside the school this afternoon to offer reassurances to both parents and pupils.

Eastleigh MP Mims Davies warned people to be "vigilant", while Oasis Academy Mayfield has also issued a notice to students and parents.

In a tweet, the school said: "In light of this news story please be vigilant around [the] community and stay safe."