POLICE are hunting a man who sexually assaulted an 11-year-old girl.

The incident took place in Fryern Recreation Ground, Chandler's Ford, on Monday between 8.10am and 8.30am.

The girl was walking to school when she saw a man sat on a bench between the basketball court and play area.

After the girl had walked past, the man approached her from behind and grabbed her upper thigh, over her clothing.

The girl ran off towards Highfield Road.

The man is described as white, aged 30-50, and wearing a black coat and black shoes.

Detective Sergeant Will Whale said: “This incident happened in daylight at a busy time of day.

"We would like to hear from anyone who saw a man matching the above description in the Fryern Recreation Ground area of Chandler's Ford or anything suspicious at around that time.

“I would like to reassure the public that we continue to prioritise violence against women and girls and bring perpetrators of violent and sexual offences to justice.

“We have increased our patrols in the area. If you have any concerns please don’t hesitate to speak to one of our officers."

Anyone with information can call police on 101, quoting crime reference number 44210107929.

Alternatively, they can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.