A boy has been grabbed by a man on his way home, sparking a police investigation.

According to Hampshire Constabulary, the 12-year-old had bought a drink at the Best Buy shop on Rowner Lane, Gosport, on Tuesday (August 6).

He got to the garages opposite the Masten Crescent junction at 6.30pm when he was grabbed on the shoulders from behind by the stranger.

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A police spokesperson added: "The man did not say anything as he grabbed the boy, and the boy punched the man in the stomach to get away before running off towards home."

Police are describing the man as White, aged 20 to 30, around 5ft 10ins tall, medium build, and with a 'large shaggy' brown beard and a deep voice.

He was wearing a grey, long-sleeved sports fleece, black baggy board shorts and potentially had a tattoo on his right forearm or hand.

Anyone who knows who this man is or saw someone fitting his description in the area is asked to contact police, calling 101 or reporting it online with the reference number 44240335883. 

Witnesses can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org