Police have released an e-fit image of a man who approached a 16-year-old girl in Colchester.
The man had been driving a green van with writing on the side and had shouted at the girl before getting out of his vehicle and approaching her.
A police spokeswoman said: “He tried to engage her in conversation and placed his hand on her shoulder.
“She then ran off and the man did not pursue her.”
The man first approached the girl in Holden Road and then tried to stop her on a pathway between Asda and Peto Avenue.
He is described as black, in his late 20s, with a large gap between his front teeth. He was wearing a navy blue beanie hat, navy blue jacket and navy blue trousers.
Anyone who thinks they recognise the man involved in the incident between 3pm and 3.30pm on Wednesday, January 28 – should call PC Nick Pulham at Colchester police station on 101 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here