Police have stepped up patrols after a man exposed himself to pupils and students on two occassions.

The latest incident happened yesterday when pupils were walking home from Turton School in BromleyCross.

The school has sent out a letter to parents and police have been informed.

The incidents have taken place a well used woodland  shortcut which is commonly known as the 'chicken run' on the junction of Chapeltown Road, Darwen and Turton Road.

The path, near the school, runs between Bromley Cross and Canon Slade.

The first incident took place some weeks ago.

Headteacher of Turton,  Sam Gorse said the police had been very helpful and have been on patrol in the area near the school following the reports.

The Bolton News:

She said: “The police have been very helpful and put officers on the ‘chicken run’ route on patrol.

“The latest incident took place yesterday but the first one was two to three weeks ago.”

Parents have since expressed their concern at letting their children walk home from school.

Stacey Louise has a daughter at the school.

She said: “My daughter sometimes walks home this way, I will definitely not be letting her now, it's disgusting that children are not safe walking to school.

“I hope he is caught quickly before someone else is exposed to his disgusting ways.

“This is the kind of thing that can traumatise a child for life, leaving them feeling unsafe going out alone.”

Turton School warned parents in a letter of the incidents.

The Bolton News:

In a statement, Ms Gorse said: “We have had two incidents recently, where a male adult has exposed himself to female students on their way to school.

“On both occasions the incidents took place on the path commonly known as the ‘chicken run’, which runs between Bromley Cross and Canon Slade.

“No physical contact was made, but the incidents were extremely distressing for the students concerned.

“Both incidents have been reported to the police, who are investigating the situation.”

The school have also advised students not to take the ‘chicken run’ route home.

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The Bolton News:

Ms Gorse added: “I strongly advise that students avoid walking to and from school using the ‘chicken run’, particularly if they are alone.

“Also, if any parents have any information relating to this, please let me know.”

Greater Manchester Police have been contacted for comment.