A threat from an anonymous social media user who claimed a gang of 20 clowns would follow school children home has sparked a police investigation.

Officers were made aware of the post, which is from Instagram, on Wednesday and made a visit to the Folkestone Academy later that day.

The screenshot, had a picture of a clown, and a message warning youngsters at the academy to “watch out down the alleyways” last Friday was being looked into.

It said: “We’re coming for you, watch out and don’t get the 73 bus because we’re going to be waiting at Sainsbury’s and in the side alleyway.

“Good luck kiddies, try not to get stabbed.”

A letter was sent out to parents and guardians of the school on Thursday, written and signed by head teacher Warren Smith.

Mr Smith said: “I would like to reassure everyone that we are taking this very seriously, and we are working closely with Kent Police who are investigating the source of the original post.

“The police are also taking this seriously and are considering wider action to support all schools in Kent as these incidents unfold.

“As is often the case with incidents such as these, rumour feeds hysteria and it is important to reiterate that the children are extremely safe here.

“Reports that police were on site Wednesday because people dressed as clowns had been sighted are absolutely untrue.

“Police were on site as part of their investigation to identify the originator.”

Inspector Kevin Stephens from the Shepway Community Unit said: “There is an emerging trend, particularly on social media, of people dressing up as clowns and in some instances taking the opportunity to scare or intimadate other people.

“Kent is not the only county seeing this trend and while some might find it funny, the act of frightening or threatening others may be enough to warrant criminal offences under the Public Orider Act.”

Officers urged people to “act responsibly and be mindful of their actions.”