Police hunting man who drove at children in Perth playpark.

INCIDENT: Young people ‘traumatised’ by man who drove car on to pavement

Police are hunting a motorist said to have driven at a group of schoolchildren in a Perth playpark.

Youngsters were left terrified when a car mounted a pavement and accelerated towards them.

Witnesses said the vehicle only came to a halt when a passing adult jumped in front of it.

Police Scotland confirmed officers are investigating the incident at the popular swing park, near a row of shops off Argyll Road.

It happened just after 7pm on Wednesday.

No one was hurt but parents said their children were left badly shaken.

One mother, who did not want to be named, said: “This car just came out of nowhere and drove straight at them with its headlights on. It must have been traumatising. Some of the children had to be pulled out of the way.”

She added: “I don’t know if he was just trying to scare them but the way he was driving, someone could have been killed.”

Locals said a large group of children, aged between nine and 15, had gathered at the park on Wednesday evening.

It was claimed the incident may have been “retaliation” following a fight between two young girls.

Another unnamed resident said yesterday: “This white car turned up and just raced towards everyone.

“Another man appeared and jumped in front of the car to stop him and protect the children. Then after some shouting between the two men, he got back in his car and drove off.”

Tyre tracks at the scene show where the car travelled across several metres of grass, before veering on to a footpath.

A police spokeswoman said: “We are investigating the circumstances surrounding an incident at North Newton Park, Perth, during the evening of September 11, regarding the manner in which a vehicle was being driven.

“Inquiries continue to establish the full circumstances of the incident and whether any criminality was involved.”

Neighbours said the park was a popular hang-out for children at night. Sections of the area is protected by CCTV.

Any witnesses have been urged to contact Police Scotland on 101.

Tyre tracks show where the motorist travelled across several metres of grass.