What happened in Spring Boroughs pocket park
Northamptonshire Police have issued an urgent appeal after a woman is said to have approached three children while they were playing in Spring Boroughs’ pocket park in Northampton last month. The incident is notable because the woman allegedly offered the children chewing gum and then engaged in troubling conduct, including stroking one child’s back and inviting him to her home for a hot drink. The children reportedly ran away and alerted a nearby adult, prompting a police investigation.
Details released by the force describe the suspect as a white woman in her late 50s with a slim build and medium-length grey hair. She was seen wearing a distinctive pink hooded top with a doughnut pattern, making her stand out in the park setting. The time window cited by investigators is between 4:30pm and 5:00pm on Tuesday, September 30.
Who police are looking for
Officers are seeking information from anyone who was in the Spring Boroughs’ pocket park during the specified period and witnessed the event, or who may have seen the woman before or after the incident. The force emphasizes that the description is based on what witnesses recall and that every small detail could assist the investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact Northamptonshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
Why this matters for child safety
Cases like this highlight the importance of keeping children safe in public spaces. While large public parks are designed for recreation and socialization, adults must be mindful of the potential risks when approaching children. Children should be encouraged to stay with trusted guardians and to seek help from a nearby adult if approached by someone they do not know. Police advise that if a child is ever approached in a way that makes them uncomfortable, they should move away, tell a trusted adult, and report the incident as soon as possible.
What we know from the investigation so far
At this stage, authorities confirm that an initial offer of chewing gum occurred, followed by improvised contact that raised concerns. The alleged actions—stroking a child’s back and inviting him to a stranger’s home for a hot drink—are being treated as serious due to the potential risk to a child’s safety. The investigation is ongoing, and detectives are collecting footage and speaking with potential witnesses in a bid to identify the woman and understand the full sequence of events.
How you can help
Members of the public who think they may have information about this incident should contact Northamptonshire Police on 101. If you prefer to stay anonymous, Crimestoppers is available at 0800 555111. Providing precise details—such as clothing, approximate arrival times, or other people who may have seen the incident—can significantly aid the inquiry. Even seemingly minor observations can be crucial in reconstructing events.
Practical safety tips for families visiting parks
While the vast majority of park visits are safe, families can take proactive steps to reduce risk:
– Keep children within sight at all times and establish a clear plan for meeting points.
– Teach children to avoid talking to strangers and to seek help from staff, a parent, or a trusted adult if approached.
– Carry a mobile phone and, when possible, walk in groups or with a supervising adult.
– Be aware of surroundings and know where park entrances and staff offices are located.
– Report any suspicious behavior immediately to park staff or police.
Conclusion
The Northamptonshire Police investigation underscores the importance of vigilance in daily life and the proactive steps families can take to stay safe. As inquiries continue, investigators are asking anyone who was in the area on September 30 between 4:30pm and 5pm, or who has information about the pink hooded top with the doughnut pattern, to come forward. The community’s cooperation will be key to resolving this case and ensuring the safety of local children.
