Hampshire Police Hunt 'Suspicious Man'

Police are appealing for the driver of a van to come forward after a man was reported acting suspiciously towards two teenagers in Portchester.

The 13-year-old girls were walking along Lonsdale Avenue at around 4.15pm on Thursday, January 3, 2013 when the man approached them.

Detective Inspector Gary Hill said: "Specialist officers met and spoke with the girls and their families over the weekend. I would like to thank them for their time and assistance. The girls acted correctly by raising their concerns with a parent who was able to contact police. We always encourage people to report this type of information to the authorities promptly.

"Detectives are not linking this report to any other cases as the full actions and exact intentions of the man seen by the girls are not completely clear at this time.

"However, it is clear that this man's behaviour frightened and upset the girls, and is causing some concern to local residents. Therefore, I am appealing for this man to come forward and talk with the police about what happened. There could be a completely innocent explanation that will allow us to reassure the girls, their families and the community. We believe the man could have been a delivery driver working for a local shop or supermarket. Officers are making direct enquiries with businesses in the area.

"I would also ask witnesses or anyone with information about a van in Lonsdale Avenue in Portchester on Thursday afternoon to contact detectives."

The van driver, witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact CID at Fareham Police Station by phoning 101. Mini-Com users can call the police on 01962 875000. Information can be given anonymously by calling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.