"Diligent" preschool staff averted the potential kidnap of a young child by following "stringent" security measures.

A mother posted on Facebook on September 21 saying that two women had "tried to kidnap" her son at St Mary's Preschool, in Upper Street, Angel, claiming to be related to the child.

But staff at the school "refused to engage" and following the strict security measures, called the police.

The parent, who we are not naming, posted pictures of the women alleged to have approached the school, dated September 18.

The parent said: "These two girls tried to abduct my son from his nursery St Mary’s in Upper Street, Islington, claiming to be his biological mum and showing a social media picture of my son on their phone. Police are aware, please share as it could help."

The Vicar of St Mary's Islington, the Rev James Hughesdon, said: “Reports circulated on social media regarding an incident which took place at St Mary’s Preschool in mid-September.

"In what was an isolated event, two adults engaged staff in a conversation at the gates about a child in the care of St Mary’s Preschool.

"These adults were unknown to staff who, following the stringent security measures in place to protect children at St Mary’s Preschool, refused to engage and subsequently notified the police.

"My thanks go to the diligent actions of preschool staff and their ongoing commitment to delivering first-class care to children in the local community."

The Metropolitan Police said they were unable to locate the incident without a crime reference number.