A girl was sexually assaulted by a man who approached her, police say.

The victim, aged 12, was in Hiltingbury Road, near to the junction of Lakewood Road at 7.55am yesterday.

A man approached her and touched her inappropriately.

Now, officers would like to speak with a man in connection with the incident.

He is described as white, approximately 5ft 8ins tall, of thin build, and wearing a dark grey tracksuit, black baseball cap and black round sunglasses.

Detective Inspector Emma Barrow, said: “The victim and her family are being fully supported by specialist officers as we continue our investigation into this incident.

“I appreciate the understandable concern that an incident such as this one will cause within the local community, and beyond, but I would like to reassure you all that my officers and I are working extremely hard to progress our investigation into this incident.

“Our enquiries continue, and we will be sure to keep you updated on any developments, as much as we are able to.

“In the meantime, you will see local officers carrying out enquiries and reassurance patrols in the area of the incident, so please come over and speak to them if you have any further information, concerns or questions.”

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Officers would like to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time, particularly between 7am and 8.30am, and recalls seeing a man matching the above description.

Those who recognise the man’s description and know who he is are also encouraged to get in touch.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: “Additionally, if you have any footage of the incident, including mobile phone, dash cam, doorbell camera or any other CCTV, please let us know.

“If you do have any information which may assist us in our investigation, please contact 101 and quote incident number 44240485022.”