A SEX pest indecently assaulted a 15-year-old girl in broad daylight as she walked into the city, then crossed the road and approached another woman.

Police launched an appeal for witnesses after the distressed teenager was left "upset and scared" by the incident, which happened around 12.15pm yesterday as she was walking along London Road.

The man approached her from the other side of the road and waited by a pathway.

As she walked past, he stepped out in front of her and blocked her way and tried to lure her into Elmfield Gardens.

He asked her the time and then touched her and asked her to go with him, but she pushed off his advances and walked quickly off.

Immediately afterwards, the man crossed the road and approached another woman. It is not clear what he said to her.

"This was a frightening experience, which left a young girl feeling upset and scared," said investigating officer PC Debbie Sanders.

"I'd ask anyone with information to contact me on 01906 723888.

"In particular, I'd like to speak to the woman who was approached by the man after the incident."

The man was described as white, in his mid-30s, 5ft 8in to 5ft 9in tall, and of medium build. He was clean shaven, with short dark-brown hair. He was wearing a blue cagoule-style anorak.