Police have apologised for "failing" a teenager who was chased by a man in a balaclava.

Anna Crouch slammed West Mercia’s response after her stepson was chased round an estate in Pershore late at night.

She said it took two days before an officer visited the family and believes the incident could have been avoided by an increased police presence in the area.

Ms Crouch said: “I’ve been told by a Safer Neighbourhood Team officer that my son was failed, he could have been in a body bag.

“He could have ended up in a very different situation and that’s scary.

“As parents, we feel let down by the police.”

Now, West Mercia Police has apologised for how they dealt with the situation and has provided an update on the case.

Daniel Fenn, SNT inspector for Malvern Hills and Wychavon, said: “We understand the upset that this incident caused.

“We are sorry the family feel ‘failed’ by our response.  We work very hard to give our community a speedy response to incidents but accept that occasionally this may fall below expectations.” 

He added: “We can confirm that an officer visited the family in Pershore following the incident and I hope we reassured them. 

“Our Safer Neighbourhood Officer offered support and retraced the route taken with the victim to get a better picture of the location and of what exactly happened. 

“Our investigations are continuing and our SNT officer has paid a follow up visit to the family.”

READ MORE: Urgent calls for more police officers after teen chased by man in balaclava

Ms Crouch explained that a man, around 6ft tall and dressed all in black and a balaclava, jumped out of a bush and chased her stepson holding a large weapon, possibly a bat.

The incident happened at around 9.50pm on Friday, October 21, in the Strawberry Place and Lucerne Avenue area of Pershore.

READ MORE: Stepmum's plea after teenager chased by balaclava-clad man

Ms Crouch also voiced her disappointment with the police’s response to the police and crime commissioner, John Campion.

Mr Campion said: “When I was contacted by the resident, it was worrying to hear the concerns that were raised after what would have no doubt been an extremely frightening experience.

“Following the call, I ensured the family received support from the Victim Advice Line and they were given home and personal safety alarms.

“I will, however, be seeking assurances from West Mercia Police around how this incident was dealt with and I will work with partners around the wider issues that surround this.”