[P]olice investigating a report of a girl being forced into a van in Barrow can now confirm that the incident was falsely reported.
Superintendent Rob O’Connor said: “Several child witnesses came forward to report this incident, and there were numerous resources dedicated to investigate overnight and in to today.
“As a result of our enquiries and further discussions with those witnesses, they have accepted that the incident was fabricated.
“We thank the public and the media for their help with our appeal, and are pleased that there was no young girl in any danger.
“I’d like to remind members of the public how serious it is to make a false report. Our officers continually work hard to fight crime and disorder and need to be available to respond when it is really needed. Making false claims only ties up our resources that could respond elsewhere.”
