POLICE are appealing for witnesses following an assault on two nine-year-old girls in Bournemouth.

The girls were approached by a man in Fishermans Walk in Southbourne at around 11am on Sunday, before a minor altercation took place.

They were not injured in the incident and made their way home.

The offender is described as a black man aged between 50 and 60 years old, and around six feet to six feet two inches tall.

The man, who has dreadlocks, was wearing a navy blue top, a short-sleeved black leather jacket and blue jeans.

Detective Sergeant Steve Symms, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This is an extremely unusual incident which has caused distress to the young girls.

“The man’s motives are not known at this time and it is not quite clear what exactly happened.

“I am keen to speak to anyone who was in the area at that time and specifically to a man who was walking a dog and a woman pushing a pram.

“I am also appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident to contact me as soon as possible.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 or call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.