POLICE in the Three Towns have quashed social media rumours that two men in van approached a child with malicious intent in Stevenston yesterday. 

Various posts on Facebook indicated that a black transit van was in the area and that the people in the van had approached a youngster with criminal intentions.

Police have said this evening that there was no criminality but a 'false call with good intent'. 

In a statment, Inspector Alison Wilson, of Saltcoats Police Office, said: "We are aware of reports circulating online that two men in a black transit van approached a child in the Stevenston area of North Ayrshire on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 7, 2020.

"Following extensive enquiries, police can confirm that there was no criminality to this. This was a false call with good intent.

“I would remind the public to be mindful of what they share on social media and in online forums. We treat all reported incidents seriously, and will always conduct a thorough investigation.

"Remember you are responsible for what you post, comment on, and share, online.

“I would like to reassure members of the public and the wider community that this instance was not criminal in nature, and there was no risk posed to the public.”