A MAN has been charged with indecent exposure after a police investigation into an incident at a Co-op store.

Shortly before 4.15pm on Friday, 25 August, police received a report from a member of staff at a shop in Stanford-le-Hope, concerning an allegation a man had exposed himself to children in the store.

After some speedy enquiries, including reviewing CCTV footage, officers identified a person of interest and made an arrest the next day. (Saturday 26 August)

Gary Scott, 52, of Hope Avenue, Stanford-le-Hope, has since been charged with indecent exposure.

He is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court tomorrow (Monday, 28 August).

PS Adam Bowden, of Grays Community Policing Team, said: "We relied on the cooperation and reports from both shop staff and members of the public to ensure we could act quickly to progress this investigation.

"We take matters of this nature incredibly seriously, keeping young people safe is a priority and we will always act on reports received from the public."