A school has issued out a letter to parents after their pupil was stalked by a man in a van.

The girl, Year 7, from Beauchamps School, in Beauchamps Drive, was walking on Hyde Way on her way to school when a van followed her for a short distance.

The van drove close to the kerb where the pupil was walking and matched her walking pace. She ran towards Nevendon Road where she met with other students. 

When they turned back around the van had gone. Luckily, nothing was said or done to the girl however the experience had left her shaken.

The headteacher, John Edwards, said: "While we would not wish to alarm you or our students unnecessarily, could you please discuss this with your children and remind them to be vigilant when walking to and from school. 

"They should report anything suspicious to you and the school. The police should also be informed. 

"Students should take the usual common sense approach of not talking to strangers and where possible walk in small groups rather than alone."

A spokesman from the school told the Echo they have not received any new updates from Essex Police about the incident.

Sarah Keevil, 31, mother of two daughters and also co-founder of the Crimewatch Wickford community group, said it was fortunate nothing had happened to the student.

She said: "My daughters are nine and four. As a parent, of course I am very concerned of my children when they are walking to school.

"My eldest daughter has asked me if she could walk to school on her own but I told her she was too young.

"However, your children will grow up one day and you have to let them spread their wings.

"Parents should never stop having talks to their children about safety and make them aware of potential dangers. Don't think of it as taboo subjects because these are important matters.

"Where possible, buddy your children up with other children so they can walk in groups.

"Nowadays it's very different from when I was in High School. A lot of kids have headphones on, which isn't ideal because it drawns out noise from your surroundings. If someone is approaching you, you won't even notice."

Ms Keevil also advised how children can respond if they find themselves in a danger.

She said: "I tell my daughters if someone is threatening you, for example, trying to grab you all manners should go out the window.

"Kick, punch, scream or do anything to ensure you are as far away as possible. You can run to a neighbour's house and knock on their door. Make as much noise as possible.

"A lot of kids have mobile phones so they can call the police. Where possible, try to remember any distinguished details of the culprit or car number plate. This can help police with their investigation.

"Of course, when you're in that situation you might forget to do these things because your first priority is getting away. However, we always encourage people to try and get details of the suspect."

The Echo has approached Essex Police for a comment.