This in from the Police, in their own words. Ed
Police are appealing for more information after suspicious behaviour was reported near a bus stop on the Isle of Wight.
Officers are continuing to make enquiries into concerns about how a man behaved towards three children who were waiting at the bus stop to go to school.
Took place on 8th July
A man driving a yellow van pulled into the bus stop opposite the shops on the main road through Arreton between 8.15am and 8.30am on Friday, July 8, 2011.
It was reported the man made a remark to the children about his van being the school bus for the day. The children did not believe him and he drove away.
Family concerned about behaviour
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said, “Initial enquiries have established that the man did not hold the van doors open or make any moves for the children to get inside the van, but his actions were still regarded as suspicious.
“The family of one of the children is concerned about what happened and reported these events to the police. Officers would like to find the van driver to help confirm the exact circumstances. There could be a totally innocent explanation for what happened but we need to speak with the van driver so this matter can be resolved. Police would always encourage people to act responsibly by reporting information to the authorities if they’re worried about the welfare of a child.
“There have been no other similar reports in the area recently and the description does not match any known offenders on the island.”
Description of man
The man was described as:
> White with tanned skin
> Short dark hair with a goatee beard
> Aged in his late 30s to early 40s
> He had a high pitched voice and a foreign accent
> He was wearing a thick coat
The van was described:
> Yellow in colour
> The bodywork looked old with some rust
> Boxes were stored in the back of the van
Get in touch
The van driver or anyone with information is asked to contact the Isle of Wight Public Protection Unit (PPU) by phoning 101.
From outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, call police on 0845 045 45 45. Mini-Com users can call the police on 01962 875000. Information can be given anonymously by calling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.
