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Police have said there is “no cause for alarm” after a van driver allegedly offered a boy a lift home in Trethomas.

A number of schools across the borough have issued safety advice to parents following the reported incident.

In a statement, Temporary Chief Superintendent Jason White, of Gwent Police, said: “On Thursday September 11, parents in the Caerphilly borough may have received safety advice from their schools around collections and people approaching children in the area.

“I’d like to reassure parents, guardians and learners that there is no cause for alarm across the borough, and this stems from a report made earlier this week in Trethomas.”

Ch Supt White explained: “We received a report of suspicious behaviour in Trethomas at around 3pm on Tuesday September 9 after a man driving a white van along Bryn y Fran Avenue reportedly stopped at the crossroads with Bevan Rise and spoke to a boy walking home from school.

“The man allegedly offered the boy a lift home before driving away when the offer was refused; there was no contact between the motorist and the boy, who returned home safely.

“The driver of the van was later identified and is assisting our officers as enquiries continue. At this time no offences have been identified nor arrests made.”

Ch Supt White confirmed it was an “isolated” incident, and urged people to be mindful of messages they are sharing online.

He said “While we completely understand parents and guardians remaining vigilant, the report is isolated to the Trethomas area, so we’d ask people to be mindful of what messages they are sharing online.

“Of course, our officers are here for you 24/7 so if you do have any concerns please contact us.”

Anyone with concerns can contact Gwent Police on 101, or through direct message on social media.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.