Girl, nine, approached by man in park

Sussex Police have upped their patrols in Hotham Park after a report that a man approached a girl at 5.10pm on Tuesday, July 23.

The girl ran off to the adults she was with and told them what had happened and it was reported to police.

A police spokesman said she was scared but unharmed. There was no physical contact between the man and the victim.

The man, who had a bike with him, is described as white, with white/greying hair and was wearing black lycra cycling shorts, a sea blue-coloured T-shirt, dark sunglasses and a red cycle helmet.

Sergeant Sarah Leadbeatter : “The girl did the right thing by running away and telling an adult. We have increased our patrols in the area of the park.

“There have been no other incidents reported to us but we are looking for the man. If anyone has any information about the incident or recognises the description of the suspect, please call 101 quoting serial 1399 of 23/07.

“In the meantime we are asking to people to stay vigilant but keep calm.”