When the teenager declined, he persisted before driving away as the frightened girl ran off. The incident happened on the outskirts of Kinnerley village, near Oswestry at around 7pm on Tuesday.

Police are anxious to trace the driver and say it might have been a totally innocent approach. Detective Constable Paul Rogers, the investigating officer, said: “I’m appealing for the driver to come forward so we can resolve the matter. His behaviour was suspicious and the young girl was understandably frightened. However, there may well be an innocent explanation.

“I would also urge anyone with information which might assist the police – either who saw any part of the incident or who may know the identity of the driver – to get in touch. The number of Oswestry CID is 0300-333-3000.”

DC Rogers said the girl was dressed in school uniform when a car approached from behind , pulling up alongside her next to a dirt track known as Brookhouse Lane.

“The male driver beckoned to her with his right hand and mouthed the words ‘do you want a lift’. She said ‘no’ and carried on walking. The car moved forward and pulled up next to her again. This frightened the girl who ran to a house nearby and reported what had happened. She saw the car drive off after a van pulled up behind it.”

DC Rogers said the man made no effort to get out of the car, to open its doors or windows and made no threats to the girl.

The vehicle is described as a silver estate car, possibly a Peugeot, with the registration prefix “W”. Its driver was white, in his early 40s, with short blond hair and clean shaven. He was wearing round framed glasses.

Information can also be given to the anonymous Crimestoppers number, 0800-555-111.