Parents and pupils have been given a keep-alert warning after a suspicious incident affecting a schoolgirl.

The child, waiting for a minibus, took fright and ran away after a van pulled up alongside her as she waited for a minibus.

It happened at Court Road, Walmer, this morning and police were called at 8.08am.

A spokesman said: "A girl reported being concerned and running away after a van pulled up alongside her.

"The driver is not reported to have spoken to the girl or exited his vehicle.

"Officers have spoken to the girl and provided her with safety advice.

"Enquiries into the incident are ongoing."

The girl, aged between 11 and 14, at a school in Dover.

The head teacher told our sister paper the Dover Mercury: "As always, we urge parents and students to remain vigilant and safe."

A letter from the school to parents said: "One of our Key Stage 3 students was waiting for the minibus in Deal and a white van slowed next to her.

"This made our student feel very uneasy and scared. The incident has been reported to the police by parents.

"Please can you remind your son/daughter to stay stay when walking to and from school?"

To help protect the child's identity we have chosen not to name the school.