School issues warning after man 'picked up and carried' girl, 14, in attempted abduction

A school in south Manchester has warned pupils and parents to be 'extra vigilant' after an attempted abduction nearby.

A major police investigation is underway after the worrying incident on Errwood Road in Burnage on Friday, December 1. Police said at around 5.20pm, a 14-year-old girl was approached by a man walking along the road.

He spoke to her briefly before 'picking her up and carrying her to a bench' in the Cringle Park area. Officers said he 'attempted to keep her in place'.

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While he took a phone call, the girl was able to escape. Thankfully, she was unhurt and raised the alarm.

A hunt is underway to find the man, who was wearing a a black puffer jacket, black joggers and white trainers. Police said he was black and believed to be aged around 20.

This morning, St Mary's RC Primary School, which sits just off Errwood Road on Clare Road, sent a message to parents and carers warning them to 'extra vigilant' with their children. The email, which has been seen by the Manchester Evening News, said: "Important information from GM Police.

"Serious incident: Attempted abduction of a 14-year-old female. Location: Errwood Road, Cringle Park.

"Date: Friday 1st December 2023. Time: 5.20pm. Whilst this is an isolated incident, please be extra vigilant, particularly if your children walk home on their own.

"For further information please see GMP, Fallowfield, Withington, Levenshulme and Burnage social media pages."

After the incident, Detective Inspector Helen Bagnall of GMP South Manchester district said: "Since receiving the