A schoolgirl saved her best friend from the clutches of a man who tried to drag her into his car in Eastbourne.

The 12-year-old was walking down an alleyway in Brodrick Road when the man leapt out of a parked car and lunged at her pal.

He grabbed her by the arm and tried to drag her inside.

But the girl caught hold of her struggling friend and managed to pull her away before the pair fled.

The man, who had a dirty face and dirty hands, then pursued the terrified pals along roads near Eastbourne Technology College for several minutes before finally giving up the chase.

Police raced to the scene after the two schoolgirls made a breathless 999 call.

They are treating the attempt snatch as a one-off but today issued a warning for youngsters to be on the lookout for the man, who is between 20 and 40 with a beard and moustache and black, collar-length hair.

A spokesman for Sussex Police said: "It was a very brave thing to do and the girl should be proud of herself. Her actions may have saved her friend.

"They did exactly the right thing by running away and then calling for help as soon as possible."

The abductor wore a black leather jacket, blue jeans and blue and white trainers.

Police believe the silver saloon car was a Volvo and are keen to speak to witnesses who may have seen the number plate.

The spokesman added: "We really want to speak to anyone who saw this incident. We want to get hold of this man as soon as possible."

Anyone with information should call Detective Sergeant Judd Hinchliffe on 0845 6070999 or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.