PARENTS are urged to be on their guard after a man attempted to abduct an eight-year-old girl.

The incident happened just after 4.30pm on Wednesday as the young girl was walking through Beadlam, near Helmsley.

A police spokeswoman said the man is described as around 30-years-old, with blond, combed back hair.

The offender was about 6ft tall and was wearing blue Adidas shorts and sun glasses.

He was driving a red sports-type car with large wheels which may have been alloys.

A police spokeswoman said: "Fortunately the girl ran away and was not harmed in any way."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Malton Police on 01653 692424.

Updated: 11:25 Friday, May 24, 2002