An investigation is underway after two schoolchildren were approached by a stranger and offered lifts home.

The incidents happened in the Spa Road area of Ballynahinchin Co Down on Thursday afternoon.

Police say that an ‘unknown individual’ approached the two children but fortunately, the children did not engage and continued on their journey before alerting adults to what had happened.

The approaches have caused major concern locally, with DUP councillor Alan Lewis calling for increased police patrols.

‘Thankfully the children involved did exactly the right thing,’ Cllr Lewis said speaking to Belfast Live. ‘They continued on their journey, did not engage and immediately made adults aware of what had happened.

‘While there is no cause for alarm, incidents of this nature are understandably concerning for parents and the wider community. It is important that they are treated seriously and that appropriate steps are taken to provide reassurance.’

The councillor said he would be engaging directly with the PSNI and other agencies, and encouraged parents to use the opportunity to talk to their children about personal safety.

A PSNI spokesperson said: ‘Police received a report of a suspected suspicious approach towards two children in the Spa Road area of Ballynahinch on Thursday afternoon, 28th May. Enquiries are ongoing.’

Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1420 28/05/26.