A man tried to entice a ten-year-old girl into his car with the promise of sweets.
He offered to take her to nearby shops but the girl refused and ran home.
Police today warned all parents and children to be on their guard.
The incident happened at about 6.45pm on Monday when the girl was walking in Gibbon Road, Newhaven.
Police are trying to trace the driver, who was white, in his mid-40s and had shoulder-length brown hair with grey streaks. He wore a black leather jacket and had a southern accent.
The older-style green car he was driving had rust on the lower parts of the doors.
Anyone with information should contact PC Simmonds at Newhaven police on 0845 6070999 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article