Last week, West Mercia Police issued an appeal for information, after they received a report of an attempted abduction in Staddlestone Circle in Saxon Gate, Hereford. Local officers have now confirmed that the incident is no longer being treated as an attempted abduction.

The police were called on Wednesday evening (August 31st) and it was reported that a nine-year-old girl was walking along Saddlestone Circle when she was approached from behind by a man. The girl managed to escape unharmed and speak to her mother on her mobile telephone. It is understood that the incident took place between 8pm and approximately 8.15pm.

Detective Inspector Martin Taylor said: "Although the incident is no longer being investigated as an attempted abduction, our enquiries continue in order to ascertain whether an offence has taken place and if so, of what nature.

"I understand that following allegations of this sort the local community will be, understandably, concerned and we would like to thank both residents and the media for their support following our appeal for witnesses.

"I know that the concern raised by this incident will last beyond today. As such, we will continue to work with the family and with the community as we realise the significant impact this has had in the area and further afield."

He continued: "I have been heartened to see how the community has come together to support the child and her family and I am sure this will continue beyond today.

"Attempted abduction offences are extremely rare and when such information is received, as the public we serve would expect, we treat it extremely seriously. A large scale investigation was launched and a significant number of resources have been dedicated to ascertaining the circumstances of the incident that had been reported. I hope residents are reassured that we take their safety extremely seriously.

"Once again I would like to thank the family, the local community and the media for their support for this investigation."

If you have any information that could help the investigation please call police on 101 and quote incident number 768s of Wednesday 31 August.

Alternatively, if you want to give information but don’t want to give your name you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website. Crimestoppers are not part of the police, when you contact them you won’t be identified. The only person who knows you have given information is you.