POLICE are running high-visibility patrols in the Stansted area after two young teenagers were alarmed by the actions of motorists last week.

Last Wednesday (April 11) at around noon, a 14-year-old boy was stopped by the driver of a royal blue Ford Transit van in Forest Hall Road. The man asked if he wanted a lift and after the youngster declined and tried to take down the index of the van, he drove off. He was described as white and unshaven, with black or grey messy hair, and around 40 years old.

In a separate incident at around 3.30pm last Friday (April 13), a man sitting in a stationary white Ford Transit van in Church Road stepped out of the vehicle as a 13-year-old girl walked past, and grabbed her by the arm.

The girl released herself from his grasp, and the man got back in his van and drove off.

He was described as white, aged around 40 years old, of skinny build, with dark brown or black hair. The incident is being investigated as an assault.

Sgt Colin Cox said: “Essex Police are keen to speak to the drivers involved in these two incidents to seek an explanation for their behaviour.

“I would also appeal for residents to work with officers by reporting concerns directly to Essex Police and not through other forums or communication channels so that officers can respond appropriately to these incidents.”

Police also confirmed that there was no suggestion that these incidents were linked to the recent reports of attempted child abductions in Harlow.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “Officers are continuing to investigate the incidents in Stansted and welcome any further information from the public, but are not currently linking them to the earlier incidents in Harlow.”

Police have asked anyone with information about the incidents in Stansted to contact officers at Saffron Walden police station on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.