Killer Clowns could target Harrow schools say police

Harrow police stated there was the potential for “killer clown” attacks on schools in the area, prompting intervention tactics from teachers at West Lodge Primary School, in West End Lane, Pinner.

Staff at the primary school sent letters out to parents advising them to be “vigilant”, informing them that police had been in touch to warn that local schools could be targeted by perpetrators of the horror phenomena.

Pupils at the school were then given “stranger danger” talks and given tips to avoid dangerous situations, although “killer clowns” were not explicitly mentioned.

Older children at the school were taught more specifically about the craze, and were told that is was “silly and irresponsible”, according to head teacher Jim Dees.

“This craze is growing but we don’t want to raise panic,” he added.

“We received a note from Harrow police saying they had information that some Harrow schools might be targeted, so I thought I would act on that. What we didn’t want to do is raise anxiety amongst the children.

“I asked each teacher to do a general talk around stranger danger, and sent a note to parents saying we had received a note from police, just so that they were aware.”

A link to the NSPCC website was also included in the letter to parents.

An NSPCC spokesperson said: “Increasing reports that these ‘clowns’ are not simply seeking to frighten children but using them to intimidate, commit crimes, abuse or bully are deeply worrying, and this trend needs to be stamped out.

“Young people should stay well away from them. And if they do happen to see a ‘creepy clown’ out on the streets or lurking near their school, they should immediately tell their parents or the nearest responsible adult and report it to the police where necessary.”  

Commenting on recent reporting of so-called 'killer clowns' incidents in London, Commander Julian Bennett, lead for the Autumn Nights Campaign, said: "We are currently assessing a small number of reported 'killer clown' incidents in London, three of which meet the threshold of a criminal offence.

"Our primary responsibility is identifying and investigating those incidents where a criminal offence has occurred.

"However, anti-social behaviour can leave people feeling scared, anxious and intimidated and I would urge those who are causing fear and alarm to carefully consider the impact their actions have on others.

"In the run up to Halloween it is expected that these types of incidents will increase but with the launch of our annual Autumn Nights campaign in the coming weeks, Safer Neighbourhood officers working in partnership with other agencies will be carrying out additional reassurance patrols and will be on hand for those who are especially vulnerable during this period.

"Whilst we do not want to stop people from enjoying themselves it is important that while having fun they remember to act in a responsible manner and understand that they could be prosecuted if a criminal offence is committed."