Two mums have warned of the dangers children face when playing outside after their daughters were dragged into bushes by an attacker.
Marie Callow and Jenni Feeney said they were left disgusted after respective daughters Teoni, 9, and Courtney, 10, were targeted near a school in Allesley.
But they also revealed their pride at the girls' actions after they scared off the attacker by screaming loudly through the ordeal.
Teoni, a year five pupil at St Christopher's Primary School, was pulled by the wrist as the pair walked along a patch of land between the school and Brookside Avenue at around 5.30pm on Saturday (July 12).
She was dragged into bushes but was helped by close friend Courtney, who tried to pull her back while the pair screamed for help.
The man, who police believe to be in his 20s, soon ran off but both girls have been left too scared to leave their homes.
Police have launched an investigation and stepped up patrols in the area.
Teoni's mum Marie told us: "We need to get the word out there to protect other children.
"It's a public place and a lot of people walk their dogs down there."
She added there were no words that could describe how thankful she was for ten-year-old Courtney.
"If she had run away for help rather than doing what she did than I strongly believe my daughter wouldn't be here today."
Courtney's mum Jenni added she was 'bursting with pride'.
"She thought 'I'm not going to let go of my friend' and got involved in a tug-of-war with the man.
"The girls grew up together and Teoni gave her a necklace and card saying how she might not be here without Courtney's help."
The man is described as white, around 6ft tall, clean shaven and with short brown hair. He was wearing a black bomber-style jacket at the time of the incident.
Chief Inspector Tim Metcalfe urged people to call 999 if they spot suspicious activity in the area.
“The incident lasted just a few seconds but was undoubtedly very scary for both girls.
"They did exactly the right thing by screaming loudly."
Local councillor Bally Singh added the community had 'reacted with strength' led by the brave actions of the girls.
"Parents are now helping each other out taking children to local schools, so that they do not walk unaccompanied," he said.
"Let's hope this dangerous man is caught soon."
Anyone with information is asked to contact to DC Fleur Buxton on 02476 539130.
Posted: Thu Jul 18, 2013 12:28 am