DETECTIVES are investigating reports of a man, who dresses as an elderly woman, approaching teenage girls and women in order to strike up conversation and ultimately cuddle or touch them.

Jon Green, of the East Kent police media office, said: "This may be under the guise of a comforting gesture.

"Women have also been asked to wear 'her' coat or scarf or shawl and may have involved the filming of them walking down the street."

So far there have been reported incidents in the Folkestone and Canterbury areas. But police think similar incidents may have taken place in other parts of East Kent.

Anyone who has been approached by this person is asked to contact Det Con Richard Lown, at Folkestone Police Station on 01303 289211.