Police are warning parents to be extra vigilant after a man attempted to abduct a young girl.

The incident happened at around 8pm on Thursday in Warrior Drive, Seaton Carew, near Hartlepool.

The 11-year-old girl was waiting to cross the road when a small, pale blue hatchback car stopped.

The male driver spoke to the girl and tried to get her to go over to him, but when the girl ignored him he became irritated.

As the girl then ran off towards Parkwell Close he got out of his car and attempted to run after her. She ran away and the man got back in his car before driving off.

PC Janet Mathwin of Hartlepool Police, said: "This was a very distressing incident for this young girl, who was luckily not hurt in any way.

"I hope that this appeal will help catch the person responsible."

The man is described as 5ft 10ins tall, thin but strong build and of scruffy appearance.

It is thought he is in his late 20s to early 30s and was wearing a dark blue baggy jacket, tracksuit bottoms and a dark blue hat.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC Mathwin on (01642) 302126 or crimestoppers on 0800 555111.