A DASHCAM footage appeal has been launched by police after allegations a man attempted to lure an 11-year-old boy into a van.

As reported previously, a call was made to police on Thursday at around 8.20am of the boy walking along Gaskell Street and Sankey Street in St Helens when a man driving a white transit van approached him.

The man reportedly urged the boy to get into the van but he ran off to his school, who then contacted police.

Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the incident and people with dashcam or CCTV footage to get in touch with police.

The man is described as white, in his mid-20s, with facial stubble and wearing a grey hoodie.

Detective Inspector Steve Ball said: “I would like to reassure the local community that these incidents will be fully investigated and although this must have been upsetting, the child did the right thing by running away and telling an adult.

“There will be an increased police presence in this area at the end of the school day and CCTV continues to be examined.

“Neighbourhood officers regularly visit schools to work alongside teachers in giving children appropriate stranger danger advice and it is encouraging to see that the message clearly sticks.

"We would encourage anyone who witnesses such incidents to contact police as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact @MerPolCC or 101 quoting ref 0177 of December 13 or @CrimestoppersUK via social media or 0800 555 111.