THE headteacher of a Furness school has reassured parents child safety is a priority following concerns after a ‘suspicious male’ was found at the rear of the school.

Sarah Powell, headteacher of Burlington Church of England Primary and Nursery School, responded to concerns raised after a letter was sent out by police warning residents that a ‘suspicious male’ was seen in the area.

The letter stated that the man was seen in a resident’s garden and then nearby the rear of the school on Tuesday March 12 around 3.30pm.

The suspicious man was described as in his 50s, average build, wearing a dark top and trousers carrying a mug.

Following an investigation by police the man was identified, and spoken to regarding the concerns.

A police spokesman said: “A police investigation took place following the report of a man acting suspiciously around the Kirkby school area on Tuesday, March 12 at around 3.30pm.

“The enquiries concluded that no crimes were found to have been committed and no further action is being taken.”

Mrs Powell has however reassured parents that safety at the school is a key priority.

“The safeguarding of children is at the forefront of everything we do at the school and all our staff are constantly vigilant towards any issues of child safety.

“Things like this don’t happen in Kirkby and following the concerns raised by the police we are confident that the procedures we have in place create a very safe environment for children.

“All hand over times are carefully monitored by all our staff and although it is worrying we are not concerned.”

The letter was also shared publicly via the Kirkby-in-Furness Villagers Facebook page.

The letter also reassured parents and residents about the safety of the area.

It said: “Cumbria Police do not wish to cause you any unnecessary concern and you should not be fearful about living in your neighbourhood. You live in a safe area. We feel it is important to let you know that your local police are treating this report seriously.”