CHILDREN are being urged to take extra caution walking to and from school after a man was twice arrested for stalking girls on their way home.

During the past week, a number of reports have been made to Wiltshire Police regarding a specific man following girls in school uniform in the Nythe and Greenbridge areas of Swindon.

He has not been reported as taking any action when he approaches the girls, but was arrested for public order offences on Wednesday.

After being released on police bail, the man was taken back into custody yesterday for similar matters, where he remains.

Police are appealing for any members of the public who may have seen a man acting suspiciously, or may have been followed by this man in the Nythe or Greenbridge areas, to contact them with any information.

All secondary schools in Swindon have been made aware of the issues and will be taking steps to ensure the safety of pupils around and outside of school sites. Swindon Council is assisting police with delivering safety advice information around secondary schools in the borough.

Investigations are ongoing and police want to hear from anyone who may think they have been followed, particularly female pupils, as they continue their enquiries.

A spokesman for Wiltshire Police said: “Wiltshire Police is asking local schools in Swindon to remain extra vigilant following a number of suspicious incidents in the town.

“We have taken a small number of reports relating to a man following female students after they leave school. The man does not approach the girls.

“These reports relate to secondary schools in the Greenbridge and Nythe areas of the town, but officers are asking all teachers, parents and pupils at all schools to remain vigilant when leaving school grounds.

“A male has been arrested in connection with these incidents and released on bail. He has then been arrested again on Friday following reports of similar incidents.

“Wiltshire Police is working with Swindon Council to make sure all schools are alerted to these incidents.

“Anyone who sees anyone acting suspiciously around local schools is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.”