A man tried to snatch a four-year-old girl at knifepoint outside her school, police revealed last night.

And officers have praised the bravery of the girl's elder sister, who foiled the kidnap attempt.

The 11-year-old was walking her younger sister to St Teresa's School, in Harris Street, Darlington, when a man approached the pair from Geneva Road.

He pulled a kitchen knife from his pocket and tried to snatch the terrified four-year-old. The 11-year-old grabbed her sister and ran inside the school to alert teachers. The man then made off.

Police have released an e-fit of the man they would like to question about the kidnap bid, which happened at 9.30am on Tuesday, December 11.

He is described as dark-skinned or very tanned, with dark hair and a fringe, spotty complexion, clean shaven, wearing a black, white and red checked shirt.

The man was wearing a white T-shirt underneath it and the weapon is believed to be a kitchen knife with a black handle.

Detective Constable Malcolm Lear, of Darlington CID, said it is important the man is caught as soon as possible, in case he strikes again.

He praised the quick-thinking of the 11-year-old girl. "She had great presence of mind to protect her sister and was very brave," he said.

"Both girls were very shaken, but unharmed, and that is down to the 11-year-old picking up her sister and running into the school."

Anyone with information is asked to telephone Darlington police on (01325) 467681.