POLICE in Dorset have acted to quash internet rumours of attempted child abductions.

They say investigations have revealed there is no truth to the rumours but they will be putting on additional patrols to reassure parents.

Rumours have been circulating on social network sites of a number of attempted abductions in Alderholt and in nearby Hampshire towns of Fordingbridge and Ringwood.

On Friday evening, a 12-year-old boy was pushing his bicycle through Alderholt when he was approached by a man driving a white van.

The man asked the boy if he wanted a lift home and the boy ran to his house.

This man did not make any attempt to force the boy into the van and officers believe that this incident may be a genuine misunderstanding.

Other suspicious incidents have been reported to Hampshire Constabulary but these are not linked and are certainly not abductions or attempted abductions, as has been erroneously claimed on online social network sites, police said.

Inspector Mike Darkin, of East Dorset, said: “Dorset Police takes all such reports extremely seriously and it is entirely appropriate that we alert our communities when such reports are received.

“However, it is equally important that we let you know that, following further enquiries, these reports are not as they first appeared.

“Unfortunately, it seems that a number of malicious rumours have been circulated on the internet and that these unverified reports have caused unwarranted, but understandable, alarm among parents.

“I would urge residents not to pass on unsubstantiated rumours and information that they do not know to be true as this frightens people unnecessarily.”

He said genuine incidents were “exceptionally rare” but offered some safety advice.

Insp Darkin added: “In order to provide further reassurance, additional police officers are patrolling relevant areas and I would urge anyone with any concerns to approach their Safer Neighbourhood Teams.”

Advice

THE police advise children to:

• Walk in groups

• Avoid taking unfamiliar routes or shortcuts

• Let parents know their whereabouts at all times.