DETECTIVES are investigating an attempted abduction of a 12-year-old boy.

The youngster was walking to school in Northallerton, North Yorkshire, at 8.25am yesterday morning when a black BMW 5 Series car with five-spoke alloy wheels pulled up alongside him close to the Mencap Centre on Goosecroft Lane.

A man got out from the rear passenger door, grabbed the boy by the hand and attempted to pull him into the vehicle.

The boy managed to break free and ran away to safety. He then reported the incident to his school, the Allertonshire, and the police were alerted.

The BMW drove in and then out of Swain Court and was last seen passing Sainsbury's on the High Street towards the level crossing.

The man who grabbed the boy was described as Asian, aged in his mid-30s, muscular build, about 5ft 10in tall, brown eyes, with a pointy nose and a “dent” mark under his right eye. He was wearing a dark suit and a pink-coloured tie.

There were up to four other men in the BMW. All are believed to be Asian and smartly dressed in suits and ties.

DC Jason Roper, of Northallerton CID, is appealing for witnesses to come forward or anyone with information that could help trace the black BMW and the occupants.

He said: “This is clearly a very worrying and serious incident, and I can assure parents, the school and the local community that we are doing everything we can to investigate it."

Anyone who can help can contact DC Roper at Northallerton CID on 0845-6060247.

Information can also be passed onto Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.

Please quote the North Yorkshire Police incident reference number 12090091934.