A primary school is warning parents to be vigilant after a man dressed in black chased a pupil on her way to school.

The girl, 11, was walking to the John Wallis Academy in Ashford from her home in The Limes when a man appeared from the bushes.

The suspect - who had his face covered - chased the Year 5 pupil when she began to run towards the school gates in Millbank Road.

He then changed direction after she passed through the school entrance.

The incident is believed to have happened at about 7.45am yesterday.

The pupil's father said: "Just to warn parents with children at John Wallis primary, my daughter was chased by a man hiding in the trees near a park in the Limes.

"He ran after her but as she managed to get to school he changed direction.

"Please keep your eyes open and if anyone has any information come forward."

John McParland, principal at the academy, said: "A pupil reported to staff that she had been followed on the way to school yesterday morning.

"The police and the parents of the child were immediately informed and two senior members of staff and members of our safeguarding team went to the area to locate the man.

"They were not able to find anyone who met the description the pupil had given.

"We always take any incidents like this very seriously and follow the appropriate measures.

"We have asked parents and carers to be vigilant."

The incident has been reported to police, who have been contacted for a comment.