A school has issued an urgent warning after reports a pupil was told to "get in the van" this morning.

Bolton St Catherine's Academy has issued the 'stranger danger' warning and the incident has been reported to police.

Schools in the area have also sent out messages to parents about the reports, urging their children to be vigilant.

A school pupil was reportedly told to “get in the van” by a man on Firwood Fold, near Tonge Cricket Club.

The incident, which occurred at 7.45am, was reported to staff at Bolton St Catherine’s Academy earlier today as well as Greater Manchester Police.

After hearing the shout, the pupil is said to have run away and did not see the man or the van.

Speaking about the incident, one parent from a nearby school said: “It does make me worry as every week we are being told about people hanging around schools.

“Children are not safe in this day and age at all.

“It's getting worse and the police seem to be doing nothing.”

There is currently no description of the man involved in the incident and Greater Manchester Police and St Catherine’s Academy have confirmed reports of the incident.

In March, Turton School sent a warning after a man exposed himself to pupils.

The incident happened yesterday when pupils were walking home from Turton School in Bromley Cross.

Police were  informed.

The incidents have taken place a well used woodland  shortcut which is commonly known as the 'chicken run' on the junction of Chapeltown Road, Darwen and Turton Road.