A “stranger danger” warning has been sent out to parents after reports a girl was allegedly “grabbed” on the way home from school.

The incident was reported to have happened between Station Road and Ellison Way in Rainham at around 4pm on Tuesday (October 8).

It is understood to have involved a student from Rainham Mark Grammar School who was “accosted” by a man before pushing him away and running off.

Addressing concerns raised on social media, a letter was sent home to parents of pupils at Rainham School for Girls, in Derwent Way, Gillingham, and those at Rainham Mark, in Pump Lane.

It read: “We have received information from Rainham Mark Grammar School, that one of their students has been accosted between Station Road and Ellison Way by a white male wearing a black and red tracksuit, and carrying a black bag.”

The letter went on to advise parents to alert their children to concerns and asked them to travel in pairs or small groups where possible.

If the youngsters were worried about anything they were told to report any incidents to a trusted adult immediately, or call 999 if they felt in imminent danger.

If they were not taking public transport, students were told to stick to well-lit and established routes and always let parents and carers know if they are going to be late or if their plans change.

And if they were still close to school they were advised to return and speak to a member of staff at the main reception.

Sharon Stephens, whose daughters are in Years 7 and 8 at Rainham School for Girls, said the letter was concerning.

“Of course I was worried,” she told KentOnline. “There were a number of things like this occurring in the last school year and we often got emails asking us to tell our children to be vigilant and not walk alone.

“It is scary for the children.”

Rainham Mark School said they understood how distressing it must have been for the girl who is being supported by the safeguarding and pastoral teams in school.

A spokesman for Kent Police said: “Officers are investigating a report that a secondary-aged school pupil was approached by a man not known to her on Tuesday, October 8 at around 3.50pm near Station Road, Rainham.

“We are carrying out inquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.”