SCHOOL children have been warned to remain vigilant after a man indecently exposed himself to a parent.

The parent was approached on Clay Hill Road, Basildon, yesterday morning after dropping their child off at the Kingswood School.

The school sent an email to parents yesterday afternoon warning them about the incident.

The school also stated it had spoken to children about keeping safe when leaving and arriving at school.

There are a number of schools in the area, with Woodlands School and Cherry Tree Primary nearby.

The email sent to parents, and seen by the Echo, said: "We have been informed that this morning a man indecently exposed himself to a parent near Clay Hill Road.

"This has been reported to the police but the perpetrator had gone by the time they arrived and they were unable to find him.

"We have spoken to the children today about the importance of keeping safe when leaving the school premises, particularly those who walk home alone.

"Could we ask parents to remain extra vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police immediately."

Kingswood School confirmed they sent the email after the parent reported the issue to the police, then notified the school.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or contact charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.