Solihull major college in lockdown after man ‘chants about demons and kids’

A primary school in Solihull was forced into lockdown for nearly an hour following concerns about a man reportedly ‘chanting about demons’.

The alert was triggered at Our Lady of the Wayside Catholic Primary School, which also operates a nursery, on Stratford Road in Shirley on Tuesday, November 11, at around 3pm.

Officers from West Midlands Police were swiftly dispatched to the school after receiving reports of a suspiciously behaving man. The school reported that an intruder was spotted in a church car park, but he did not manage to enter the school premises. In response to the situation, the school adhered to safety protocols and secured the building for approximately 45 minutes.

Once the police had confirmed the area was safe, the school gates were reopened for parents to pick up their children. No arrests have been made and the police are appealing for any information.

Last night, a worried parent told BirminghamLive: “A man tried to access the primary school who was chanting about demons and the children.

“He attempted to enter the property through several different routes but ultimately failed. He was confronted by staff and a few parents who were on the grounds.

“The school was completely locked down with no parents able to collect their children and children locked in their classrooms.

“Police were called and had to deem the area as safe before gates were opened to collect the children and allow parents on to the school grounds.”

One parent praised the school’s response, stating: “The school was excellent in its safety protocols – and it was managed expertly. Sadly if other schools are not as prepared there could have been a different outcome.”

In a letter to parents, the school clarified: “An intruder was seen on the car park grounds of Our Lady of the Wayside Church. To be clear this intruder did not access school grounds and no child was under or placed under risk at any time.

“Our Lady and All Saint`s MAC is reviewing all school security measures and school ground security. The safety and well being of all our children and young people is paramount to us. We continue to work closely and be supported by the police.”

A police spokesperson said: “We were called to reports of a man acting suspiciously around a school in Stratford Road, Shirley, at around 3pm yesterday.

“Officers attended and searched the surrounding area but the man had left. The neighbourhood team will be out patrolling the area following concerns raised by the community.

“Anyone with information can get in touch with us via Live Chat on our website or by calling 101 quoting log 3202 of November 11.”