Police are urging parents to ensure their children are aware of “stranger danger” after a man tried to get a teenage girl into a van in Tiptree.

The incident happened at around 11.30pm on Monday outside the Asda in Church Road.

The 15-year-old victim was waiting outside the Asda when a white van pulled up near her and the driver told her to get in.

She refused and the van drove off.

The driver has been described to officers as Indian in appearance.

Essex Police said it is urging parents to ensure their children are aware of stranger danger and to report any suspicious activity to the police.

Anyone who saw the van or has any information about the incident is asked to contact Pc Wendy Byrne at Colchester police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Alternatively, people can click here to visit the Crimestoppers website and report it online.