A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of grooming a schoolgirl and trying to meet them in a North Yorkshire market town.

Police are appealing for witnesses following the alleged incident in Leyburn.

North Yorkshire Police said a 20-year-old man from the Leyburn area has been arrested on suspicion of attempting to meet a child following sexual grooming.

The force confirmed that the man has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

It is understood the incident is linked to a warning made to parents on Monday by teachers at a local secondary school.

The Wensleydale School, in the town's Richmond Road, said in a text message: "Police have informed us that a young man has been offering female students lifts in his car.

"Parents are asked to call 101 if concerned."

Nobody from the school was available to comment on Monday evening.

Anyone who has any information that could assist this investigation into the case should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for PC Zoe Young.

Alternatively, they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.

Callers should quote reference number 12150023727 when passing information.