POLICE are investigating a report of a girl being assaulted in Stanford-le-Hope.

The 15 year-old reported she had been approached by a man she didn't know and grabbed by the arm and hit on the leg.

It happened between 6.35pm and 7.35pm on Tuesday 19 July on Abbotts Drive, close to Abbotts Hall School where an area of pathway was cordoned off while police carried out a forensic investigation.

A statement from police asking for any witnesses or information said: "Our enquiries are ongoing. Please quote the crime reference number 42/190039/22

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively you can call us on 101."

If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.