A boy escaped an abduction attempt yesterday morning after struggling free from his captor, police have said.

Police have now launched an investigation after the young boy was allegedly grabbed by a man on his way to school somewhere in the borough of Kingston on Monday, May 21, but was dropped after a struggle.

Parents and staff at all Kingston primary and secondary schools have been warned about the alleged attack and told to be vigilant.

Police have not confirmed which school the boy was walking to when the alleged incident took place.

However the boy has described a white man with tanned skin, about 25 years old, wearing a black jumper with a blue shirt underneath, blue trousers and a black woolly hat.

They want to speak to a white woman with long black hair, about 5’ 6” wearing a red hooded top and red trousers.

Detective Inspector Simon Day said: “The attempted abduction failed and the child is safe.

"We are working very closely with the school’s staff to ensure all safeguards are taken.

“The school’s head, in liason with Kingston Council, has contacted parents to advise them of the incident.

“School heads throughout the borough have also been alerted.”

If you have any information call Kingston CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.