A DRIVER tried to lure 12-year-old schoolgirls into his van.

The first year pupils from St Columba’s School in Kilmacolm were standing with friends at lunchtime when they were targeted.

The man, who’s believed to be a delivery driver, was parked in Lochwinnoch Road close to the school entrance when he signalled to the two girls to come over to him.

He urged them to get into his van but they refused.

The girls, who were left shaken by their ordeal, immediately ran off to raise the alarm with teachers.

St Columba’s relieved rector David Girdwood today praised his pupils’ quick-thinking but has warned everyone to be on their guard.

Detectives are now urgently trying to track down the man responsible.

St Columba’s Rector Mr Girdwood said: “I am very pleased with the way the girls reacted.

“They were standing with a larger group of pupils when it happened.

“They did exactly as we would have expected and we spoke immediately with their parents.

“We obviously don’t want to scare people but I think it is only right that we make the wider community aware of it and warn others.

“In particular I have asked the senior pupils to look out for the younger pupils and for anyone acting suspiciously.

“I think we are pleased with the way the whole thing has been handled and it is in the hands of the police.” The frightening incident took place on Friday at around 11.25am.

In a letter sent to all households the rector has asked parents to speak with their children and reinforce the safety message.

He added: “All pupils in both Junior and Senior School have been spoken to about this matter and advice on keeping safe has been reinforced.

“I have asked older pupils, in particular, to be alert to anyone behaving suspiciously, to note the vehicle registration and report the matter.” Detective Inspector David Wagstaff of Greenock CID says his officers are following a positive line of inquiry.

He said: “It was reported that the girls were asked to come over, they went over and the man then asked them to get in the van.

“The man is described as Asian and in his 40s.

“He was delivering to a nearby shop.

“I would stress that there was no attempt to force the girls into the car.” If anyone has information that would help with enquiries they can contact Greenock CID on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.