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Police hunt for man 'acting suspiciously' outside Tunbridge Wells schools

17:34, 10 March 2023

updated: 18:03, 10 March 2023

A search has been launched for a man with "curtain-style" hair after he was spotted acting suspiciously outside two schools and speaking to young girls.

Police say the suspect, who is believed to be between the ages of 30 and 40, approached a number of children at schools in Tunbridge Wells.

Police received a report a child was touched on the arm by a man near St Mark's Church of England Primary School in Saunders Road, Tunbridge Wells. Picture: Google
Police received a report a child was touched on the arm by a man near St Mark's Church of England Primary School in Saunders Road, Tunbridge Wells. Picture: Google

At about 3.45pm on Wednesday, March 1, a member of the public saw him talking to unaccompanied school girls in Linden Park Road.

Just two days later, at about 3.15pm, a parent reported a similar incident in Saunders Road after the man approached a child and touched their arm.

The youngster moved away and returned to their parents, who were walking a short distance behind.

Investigating officer PC Jack Kinkade said: "We appreciate this incident may cause parents and local residents concern and would like to reassure members of the public that we are conducting a thorough investigation.

"We take safeguarding concerns seriously and officers are seeking more witnesses to the incident.

"As the events occurred during busy school pick-up times, we believe it is likely others may have seen what happened and urge them to step forward."

Detectives are looking for a white man over six foot tall with dark blonde hair, cut into a "curtains" style.

He has a British accent and was wearing a black hooded jumper with the hood up, dark jeans and white trainers.

Officers want anyone with information of who has CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage to call them on 01622 604100, quoting the crime reference 46/40276/23.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

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