Police scour Belsize Park for man offering sweets to children after second sighting

Primary schools in Belsize Park are staying vigilant after a suspected second sighting of a bearded man who sparked safety fears by offering sweets to children.

An elderly man with a goatee and a red hat caused concern two weeks ago when he offered sweets to two young boys outside The Hall School, Crossfield Road, which teaches youngsters aged four to 13.

Now a second primary school, Hereward House School in nearby Eton Avenue, has reported a similar sighting to police.

A man with the same description reportedly offered sweets to children outside Hereward House on Monday.

Police are continuing to patrol the area during school hours.

A police spokesman said: “Officers from Belsize Safer Neighbourhoods Team were on the scene within five minutes of receiving the call and conducted a search of the area but there was no sight of the man.

“Belsize Safer Neighbourhoods Team continues to liaise with schools within the area and are carrying out regular high visibility patrols during school hours.”

Parents and other nearby schools have been alerted and pupils have been warned to stay vigilant.

Sue Godwin, registrar at The Hall School, said: “We are calm but alert.”