A Year 5 boy was the target of an “attempted abduction” as he walked to his primary school in Bickley.

The child was on Wendover Road walking towards Bickley Primary School on Tuesday (March 20) when a man described as being in his 40s is reported to have asked him for a lift at 8.30am.

He ignored the driver and changed direction before seeing the man again near Palace View.

The boy managed to run away before informing his teachers.

A police spokesman told News Shopper the incident was being treated as an “attempted child abduction”.

He added: “The suspect is described as an Asian male, aged in his 40s, of large build, with a beard and moustache.

“If you were in the surrounding areas and may have happened to see a male or vehicle fitting this description, please contact police on 101. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Bickley Primary School sent a letter to parents after the incident.

It read: “All the teachers spoke to the children last week, as I did in assembly, to remind them about not talking to strangers and how to keep safe. We would be grateful if you could reinforce this with your child at home.”

One concerned parent told News Shopper: “My two kids were worried about walking in this morning and we live a stone throw away.”

No arrests have been made and enquiries continue.

This is the second incident of this type in Bromley this past month after police released an e-fit of a man they want to speak to after a reported attempted abduction of a 10-year-old girl.