Police patrols have been stepped up around a high school in Penwortham.

Penwortham Girls’ High School has issued the security alert to all parents.

Headteacher Karen Pomeroy issued the alert after an attempted attack on a pupil near the school in Cop Lane during Monday (25 February).

She said: “Following an attempted attack on one of our students this morning by an unidentified male, we would like to advise students to remain vigilant at all times. If your daughter walks to/from school then she should avoid being alone.

“Students will be given this same information later today and will be reminded about personal safety.

“Please be assured that we are working with the police regarding this incident and they are providing extra support in the area.”

South Ribble Police confirmed the 14-year-old was approached as she walked along Rawstorne Road close to the junction with Mornington Road around 8.25am.

A police spokeswoman said: “The man grabbed the girl by the wrist, tried to kiss her and then slapped her face. As a result she fell to the floor.”

Police say the attacker ran off towards Lawrence Road.

He is described a white, aged in his 40s or 50s, clean shaven with long grey straggly hair and he was wearing a black hooded top.

Officers are appealing for anyone with information or who may have dash came footage to get in touch.

Anyone who sees a man matching the description is asked to call police on 999, or call 101 and quote log number 0263.

Read more: See the latest news and headlines in Penwortham

Nearby All Hallows Catholic High School has also issued an alert to parents via the ParentMail system.

Headteacher Chris Horrocks said: “I am writing to inform you of an incident that took place this morning whereby an unidentified male attempted to attack a pupil from Penwortham Girls High School. That school has issued a safety notice to all parents and I thought it would be prudent to do the same for pupils attending All Hallows.

“I would again advise that all pupils remain vigilant at all times. If your child walks to or from school then they should avoid being alone whenever possible.

“The local police have been into All Hallows this morning and are working with Penwortham Girls High School to trace the perpetrator. Please be assured that the police are providing extra support in the local area.”

Another nearby school, Penwortham Priory, had also notified parents via the ParentMail system at lunchtime on Monday.

Additional reporting by Jack Dinsley