REPORTS of an attempted kidnapping outside a Plymouth school are false, say police.
Three girls claimed they were approached by two men in a white van while walking along Seymour Road, by Hele's School, last Monday.
Following a comprehensive investigation by Devon and Cornwall Police, officers have since concluded the incident did not happen and have dropped the case.
A police spokesperson said: "Police have conducted a comprehensive enquiry in to this matter and concluded that the incident did not occur.
"We would like to reassure the pupils and parents of Hele's School and the wider community of Plympton that incidents of this nature are extremely rare.
"We would like to thank members of the public that came forward and provided information.
"Although this incident was not as reported, we would ask parents and students to remain vigilant for suspicious behaviour."
Justine Mason, principal at Hele's, was keen to reassure both pupils and parents that there is no reason to be fearful.
Speaking to The Herald, she said: "I'd like to stress that the safety and welfare of our students and our staff is, and always has been, our very highest priority.
"Hele's School has robust safeguarding procedures in place and an exemplary record in keeping members of our school community safe. It is important to note that our school safeguarding procedures have never once been brought into question as part of this investigation.
"We cooperated at every stage of this police investigation in spite of this being an out-of-school incident, and acted on police advice in the best interests of our community without compromising the investigation.
"I have no doubt that parents will continue to be highly supportive of Hele's School and to have absolute faith in our ability and our commitment to keep their children safe and happy."