Police are hunting for a man who approached a 12-year-old boy on his way to school in Epsom.

The teenager was walking through Alexandra Park, on his way to Glyn School in The Kingsway, Ewell, when he was approached by the suspect at 8am on February 12.

The man asked to walk with him, and accompanied the schoolboy to Church Road before the victim managed to run away.

Detectives believe the man they are searching for approached the same boy the day before (February 11).

He is described as black, in his 30s, around 6ft tall and has very short black hair, with stubble on his lip and chin.

The suspect spoke with a deep voice, wearing a black puffed Nike jacket, black gloves, blue jeans and black trainers.

Epsom and Ewell Neighbourhood Sergeant Jim Dawborn said: “We are carrying out a number of enquiries to establish the circumstances of this incident and to identify this man and what his intention was.

“Extra officers will be on patrol in the area at school drop-off and pick-up times in the hope that we can locate this man, as well as to offer reassurance to pupils and their parents.

“We are treating this incident seriously and are urging all pupils in the area to remain vigilant. If you do see anything suspicious in the area, please report it to us a matter of priority.”

If you recognise the man in this description, or you have any other information which might help, please call us on 101 (999 in an emergency) or http://surrey.police.uk/TellUsMore quoting reference PR/45190015738.

You can also give information, 100 per cent anonymously, to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111; or through their anonymous online form: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/.