Police have released an efit of a man they wish to speak to after a schoolgirl was reportedly grabbed by a stranger in Dartford.

The girl was walking along Temple Hill and passing steps leading to the back of Knights Manor Way when a man, standing on the steps, is reported to have grabbed her by the wrist.

He is said to have then held her shoulders and lent forward, in what police believe was an attempt to kiss her.

The child, of secondary school age, pushed him away and ran off.

Officers have been making a number in inquiries in the area since the incident, including house to house checks and reviewing CCTV.

With the help of the girl they have now released an image of a man they believe can assist in the investigation.

He is described as being white, aged around 40, approximately 5ft 8ins tall and of medium build.

He had ginger hair and a beard which covered his chin. The man was wearing blue baggy jeans and a dark coloured long sleeved top.

The attack happened on September 26, between 5pm and 5.20pm - police are appealing for witnesses.

DC Nicki Hilton of Kent Police said: "This would have been a very distressing incident for a young child, who has told us that this man also made comments of a sexual nature as she ran away.

"Incidents such as this are thankfully very rare in Dartford, but this area would have been fairly busy at that time of day and I would urge anyone who recognises this image or has any information to get in touch."

If you can help call the North Kent appeals line on 01474 366149, quoting reference XY/038198/16.

Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.