'Kidnappers' rumour scotched

A rumour circulating that there are 'kidnappers in a van' driving around Kilcullen has been described as being 'absolutely without foundation', writes Brian Byrne.

Parents have been concerned about the rumour, which appears to be passed amongst their children, but a local Garda completely scotched the claim when contacted by the Diary.

"It was one which circulated around this time last year, too" he added.

Another rumour about women walking alone being stopped by persons in a car and asked for directions, and subsenquently being asked to get into the car, also appears to be without any current foundation.

Notwithstanding, the standard rule that children and vulnerable adults should always be aware of strangers in the vicinity and not accept any such approaches still applies.