Girl 'assaulted' on her way to school in Plymouth

Parents have been alerted to a recent incident in Eggbuckland woods after an alleged assault on a young girl.

A message from Eggbuckland Community College was posted on a local social media site noticeboard alluding to a "report of a male in the woods near the school who has reportedly carried out unsafe behaviour". The statement went on to add that the college could not give any more information.

The stated: "We wanted to send this information out so you can ensure your children take a safe route to and from school. In light of this report we will ensure that we have additional members of staff present at all college exits and the end of the college day."

Police have confirmed they received a report of what they have described as a "minor physical assault on a school-aged child on her way to school by a man."

A police spokesperson said the incident is alleged to have taken place at around 8.50am on Friday, November 29 on a path through the Eggbuckland woodland from Church Hill to the Eggbuckland Vale primary school.

The spokesperson said: "We want to assure the public that we do not believe this was any kind of abduction attempt and the matter is still under investigation. We have taken an initial account from the girl. Following the incident she ran home rather than continue onto the school and told a relative what had taken place who then called police.

"We have carried out searches of the woods in question and the neighbourhood policing team has increased its presence in the area with high-visibility patrols. We have no indication that there is a permanent presence in the woods.

"We are keeping an open mind as to the intention of the man, but at this stage we have not been made aware of any further reports.

"We want to hear from anyone who may have information about the incident or any other similar incidents in the wooded area, or anyone who may know of the male and wish to contact us. Similarly, if the man himself wishes to contact us directly to give an explanation, that would be appreciated."

If you can assist police with their ongoing inquiries contact them on 101 or via their online portal here quoting occurrence number 50240301690.

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