A warning was issued to parents this week after a pair of schoolgirls reported that a man in a car came up to them outside a leisure centre.

But a police detective has investigated the report, watched CCTV footage and established that no crime actually took place at Leatherhead Leisure Centre.

Police yesterday confirmed that what happened at 8pm on Monday, January 19, was "not as originally reported" by the young swimmers.

The update comes after the leisure centre sent a warning to parents on Wednesday via online schools communications network ParentMail and advised them to take care.

Mole Valley Neighbourhood Sergeant John Pearson said: "No doubt this incident caused concern in the local area but I would like to reassure the public that we carried out a thorough investigation into the claims and can confirm that no criminal

offence occurred.

"Surrey Police will always take allegations of this nature extremely seriously and will investigate fully any reports which indicate that the children in our community could be at risk, however we do not now believe any child was in danger.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to ask those who have an influence in our community, such as on social media or circulating group messages to double check with police before they report on such events.

"This will prevent unnecessary speculation and concern in the area which can have an adverse effect when we do need to raise the alarm."

A message from the leisure centre, sent via ParentMail on Wednesday, said: "Last Monday evening a man approached two Leatherhead swimmers in his car, at Leatherhead Leisure Centre, saying he knew where their parents were.

"Fortunately the girls ran back to the pool. Please can I ask that when you drop your children off you see them into the pool. When picking up, please come in and pick up.

"Please don’t be late and don’t ask for them to wait for you in the car park. The coaches will wait with the last swimmers at the pool."

Yesterday the leisure centre said: "The alleged incident is being investigated in conjunction with the police. There is no cause for concern at this time. 

"We will issue an update following the completion of the investigation."