Concern at ‘made-up’ car stranger stories

MADE-UP reports of suspicious behaviour are wasting police time, officers have warned.

Following a report of a driver stopping near two boys in Ashington earlier this month, police went into schools to educate children on stranger danger.

However, after the school visits, Northumbria Police says “fictitious incidents” have been reported to the force.

As all reports are investigated fully, officers say made-up information is costing police time and money.

A spokesperson said: “Police want to reassure the public that while all reports are investigated fully, those that are false are a waste of police resources and can mislead investigations.

“Extra officer patrols have been put in place in the area to ensure the safety of members of the public and reassure communities.

“If anyone does see anything of con- cern, please contact Northumbria Police immediately.”

The original incident was reported to police on the evening of Wednesday, September 20.

It was reported that a black Audi had stopped next to a six-year-old boy walking along Beadnell Grove at around 7.40pm.

A short time later police received a report of a similar car that stopped alongside a nine-year-old boy.

No physical attempt was made to get the children into the car but police say they are keen to speak to the driver and extra officers have been in the area.

The man in the car is described as a white male with brown hair who was wearing a blue top and black trousers.

Anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak to police in the area and anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting log 963 200917.