POLICE have released an e-fit of a man wanted for sexually assaulting a child.

The man is alleged to have touched an 11-year-old girl inappropriately in Northiam Road, Eastbourne, last Tuesday.

The girl was walking with two friends at about 4pm when she stopped to tie her shoelace near the junction with Longland Road when the man reportedly came from behind and touched her.

She screamed and the man ran along Longland Road.

The man is described as white, about 5ft 10 and of skinny build with dark brown, greasy shoulder-length hair and stubble.

He was wearing a grey hoodie, blue jeans, and black and white trainers.

Detective Constable Dan Thomson said: “The three girls – the victim in particular – were left understandably distressed following this incident.

“It happened in broad daylight in a built up area of town, and it is likely there will have been lots of people in the area at the time. We’re appealing for anyone who saw what happened, or who recognises the description of the suspect, or who has CCTV in the area, to contact us.

“We have been carrying out increased patrols in the area as enquiries continue.”

Anyone with information should call Sussex Police on 101 quoting Operation Enford.

Alternatively, they can report the information anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.