A teenage girl has reported being accosted by a van driver as she walked in Church Road in Tiptree on Monday.

Police are appealing for information after the incident, which happened at around 11.30pm on Monday, July 31, outside the Asda store.

Officers are also urging parents to make sure their children are aware of stranger danger - and to report any suspicious activity to the police straight away.

The victim, a 15-year-old girl, was waiting outside the supermarket when a white van pulled up near her.

It is alleged that the driver told her to get in, but she refused and the van drove off.

Officers have described the suspect as being Indian.

Witnesses and anyone who saw the van in the area should get in touch with Essex Police.

• Anyone with information is asked to contact Pc Wendy Byrne at Colchester police station by dialling 101.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or fill in their online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.