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Police warn Butler parents after man attempts to grab schoolgirl

Staff WriterNorth Coast Times

A SCHOOL in Perth’s north has issued a warning to parents after a young girl was approached by a man who tried to grab hold of her.

At about 8:45am on Wednesday, a girl was walking north along a footpath on Hinchinbrook Avenue near Ballymote Park in Ridgewood when she was approached by a man walking from the opposite direction.

It was reported that the man took hold of the girl by the wrist.

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After a struggle with the man she managed to break his grip and ran from the area.

The man is described as approximately 30-40 years of age, dark skin, with short brown hair.

He was wearing sunglasses, checked shirt, puma pants and old shoes.

Alkimos Primary School principal Andrew Gorton sent a letter home to parents urging children to be vigilant.

The letter also has a list of safety tips for children, including:

– always travel in a group

– walk on the right hand side of the road so they face oncoming traffic

– wherever possible, leave space between them and the roadway

– stay in areas that are well lit

– stay in view; avoid going into areas that are hidden from view (such as parkland or bush, or behind shopping centres) and plan trips to avois such locations

– be alert: headphones can reduce awareness considerably

– if they have a mobile phone, have it turned on and ready to dial an emergency number

– if a passing car stops nearby, never get too close

– do not hesitate to run from a situation in which they feel at risk

– provide this advice to brothers and sisters, especially if they are younger

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