A MAN approached a 10-year-old girl in Yeovil in an attempt to steal a mobile phone yesterday (January 21).

Police are appealing for witnesses after the incident on the footpath between Carisbrooke Gardens and Swallowcliffe Gardens at 8.10am.

The man approached the girl and took hold of her arm. She kicked out, causing the man to release his grip and she then ran to school to tell staff what had happened.

PC Hannah Barczynska, from Avon and Somerset Police, said: “We’d like to reassure parents we’ve not been made aware of any similar incidents involving a child.

“However, as a precaution, the neighbourhood policing team will be conducting additional patrols in the area.

“The girl did absolutely the right thing in seeking assistance from an appropriate adult and the matter being reported to us.

“Anyone who is concerned should approach one of our officers or contact the neighbourhood team on 101.”

The male has been described as approximately 25-30 years old, 6ft tall, short dark hair, and was wearinga blue T-shirt and black trousers or jeans.

If you have any information about this incident call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5221014469.