Police have reassured parents that ‘significant progress’ has been made with investigations into an incident where a driver approached a boy in West Hill.

A 25-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident that happened at around 8.30am yesterday (June 17) when the boy was walking to school.

Ottery’s neighbourhood police team released a statement saying: “Yesterday morning (June 17) a local pupil was offered a lift by a motorist.

“This offer was declined and the vehicle drove off.

“The boy was unharmed and reported this incident to the police.

“Police have identified the vehicle and are establishing the exact circumstances by speaking to the driver who is currently in police custody.

“We are aware that schools emailed a number of parents in relation to this incident - It is important that people do not jump to conclusions and allow us to investigate the matter fully.

“Currently, there is nothing to indicate that there is an increased risk to children in the area.

“We always encourage parents to discuss with their children personal safety, including what to if approached by a stranger – we are more than happy to offer advice in this area if need be.”

If anyone has any concerns that they wish to discuss, or any information they wish to share, they can contact their local school or Ottery’s police team via 101 or by emailing ottery@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk.

The log number is 393 of Wednesday, June 17.