Girl followed by man who asked her to get into car

Police are appealing for witnesses after an unknown man asked a child to get in his car before following her on foot.

Avon and Somerset Police said the girl was approached by a man driving a white Seat Leon car while walking in Molesworth Drive, in the Withywood area of Bristol, at about 20:55 GMT on Friday.

The driver, described as in his 20s or 30s, asked the girl for directions to a shop, before asking her to get in the car to show him how to get there.

The girl, who is in her early teens, refused and was later followed by the driver on foot for a short distance.

Police said the man eventually got back into the vehicle and later drove off in the direction of Queens Road when the girl bumped into two members of the public.

The man is described as of mixed heritage, slim build, with dark-coloured hair in braids. He was said to be wearing a black T-shirt and jogging bottoms.

Insp Terry Murphy said: "At this stage it is unclear why the man acted in the way he did, but we appreciate parents will likely be concerned by this incident.

"We wish to reassure people that enquiries are ongoing to fully understand what happened."

Insp Murphy said the police were not aware of any other similar incidents in the area but "will not be complacent", with additional patrols planned.

He also said police had spoken to the girls' family and had reviewed CCTV and doorbell footage.

Insp Murphy said police were keen to speak with anyone who may have any information, footage or who witnessed the incident, particularly the two people who the girl bumped into on the night.

"It may be they did not see the man, but we'd appreciate it if they took the time to call us so we know either way," he said.

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