Warnings have been issued across Gloucestershire that sex offenders might be putting up adverts for teenage baby sitters in shop windows.
Gloucestershire's Safeguarding Children's Board has alerted schools and parents after an incident in Somerset in which the tactic was used to lure in youngsters for suspected grooming purposes.
A paedophile allegedly attempted to set up a rendezvous with a young person, but then fled the scene when he saw the person was accompanied by an adult.
Leaders of the board, which includes the county council, police and social services, urged parents to always accompany their children when responding to such adverts.
A spokesman for Gloucestershire County Council said: "Police, social care staff and staff in education settings in Gloucestershire are being made aware of the potential safeguarding issue in Somerset.
"Young people should be aware that grooming can take a variety of forms and is not confined to the internet. If they are meeting adults who they don't know, whatever the circumstances, they should take someone who they know and trust with them."
Parents and children can find information on how to keep safe on the Gloucestershire Safeguarding Children Board website www.gscb.org.uk.
If you are concerned about anyone under 18 who you think is being sexually abused and that they or their family need help, call the Children's Helpdesk on 01452 426565.
