Police have stepped up patrols in the area after a 10-year-old girl was grabbed by an unknown man in North Baddesley.

It was reported the man approached the girl in Fleming Avenue and followed her, before grabbing her by the wrist when they were in Willis Avenue, sometime between 3.20pm and 3.50pm, On Monday, December 9.

The girl then kicked the man and ran away past a moving vehicle, before heading home. The girl was uninjured during the incident.

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In a statement, a spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: “An investigation is underway, and we are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen what happened.

“In particular, we would like to hear from anyone in the moving vehicle that the girl ran past.

“We would also like to hear from any other motorists in the area who may have dashcam footage that may be relevant.

“If so, we want you to get in touch by calling us on 101, quoting the crime reference number 44240535910.

“Our officers have been carrying out enquiries and reassurance patrols in the area since this incident was reported to us. If you see them and have concerns, please speak to them.”