POLICE are on the hunt for a man after an 11-year-old girl was sexually assaulted in Chandler's Ford.

The incident took place in Fryern Recreation Ground, close to the play area, sometime between 8.10am and 8.30am on Monday (March 22).

The girl was walking to school, through the recreation ground, when she spotted a man sat on a bench between the basketball court and play area.

After the girl walked past, the man approached her from behind and grabbed her upper thigh, over her clothing.

The girl then ran off towards Highfield Road.

The man has been described by Hampshire police as:

• white

• aged between 30-50

• wearing a black coat and black shoes.

Police have now increased patrols in the area following the incident. 

Detective Sergeant Will Whale said: “This incident happened in daylight at a busy time of day. We would like to hear from anyone who saw a man matching the above description in the Fryern Recreation Ground area of Chandler's Ford or anything suspicious at around that time.

“I would like to reassure the public that we continue to prioritise violence against women and girls and bring perpetrators of violent and sexual offences to justice.

“We have increased our patrols in the area. If you have any concerns please don’t hesitate to speak to one of our officers.

“Anyone with any information about this incident should call 101 quoting 44210107929.”

If you see anything suspicious call the police on 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.

Alternatively, people can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.