POLICE are investigating the attempted abduction of an 11-year-old boy in High Bentham.

They are hunting a man who stopped his car on Goodenber Road and asked the boy for directions at around 9.20pm on Saturday.

Police said the driver then asked the boy to get into the car and, when he refused, the man made a grab for him.

The boy ran home and told his parents.

The man was driving a small, blue hatchback, described as being old and rusty.

He was aged about 40, had dark brown hair, a full beard and is believed to have a Scottish accent.

"This is a very worrying incident that has left an 11-year-old boy shocked and very frightened," said Acting Inspector Jon Spivey, of Skipton Police.

"We are anxious to hear from anyone who can identify this man and this car." Anyone with information should contact Skipton CID on 01756-793377.