DETECTIVES are hunting a pervert who tried to entice two young girls into his car by offering them sweets.

The man drove up alongside the children as they were walking along a street in Great Lever last night. But the girls, aged two and nine fled.

Police fear that the man may strike again and his next targets may not be so lucky.

Parents were today warned to be on their guard and warn children of the dangers of speaking to strangers.

The incident happened at 4pm yesterday when the two children, who have not been identified, were visiting friends in Paulhan Street.

The man, wearing a crash helmet and leather clothing, drove alongside the youngsters in a Ford Escort-type saloon.

Det Insp Mike Lay, of Bolton CID, said police were treating the report seriously. He said: "This is obviously something parents need to be aware of and we would like to talk to anyone who might know who this vehicle belongs to.

"We would also like to talk to the person responsible if there has been a misinterpretation of his actions.

"If this is the case we would like him to come forward and have an innocent explanation for what has happened."

Earlier this year parents of school children in Great Lever were warned to be wary about the activities of a man who had been spotted "acting suspiciously".

Anyone with information about yesterday's incident, or who believes they know the man responsible, should contact Bolton CID on 0161 872 5050.

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