A man has attempted to abduct a three-year-old girl from a play area, police said today.

The man followed the child and her mother into the play area at The Green, Southwick, watched them for a while, then tried to grab the child's arm.

The mother, who lives locally, screamed and struck out at the man, who fled towards Church Lane.

Police carried out a search of the area but could not find the offender.

Detective Sergeant Ian Pollard said Hove CID was treating the abduction very seriously and warned parents to be vigilant.

He said: "This mother reacted in exactly the right way. She was alert and raised the alarm promptly.

"This was a traumatic experience for her and she is to be commended for her swift thinking and quick actions."

The man is described as 5ft 9in tall, aged 40 to 45, with dark cropped hair, turning grey at the sides and front.

He wore a light blue jacket, white shirt and black plastic sunglasses.

The incident happened at 10.50am on Monday. Anyone with any information should contact Hove CID on 0845 6070999.

Last week parents were warned a prowler was targeting young children outside West Sussex schools.

On one occasion the man tried to lure a five-year-old girl into his car. On another he threatened a terrified 11-year-old and chased her when she ran away.

Police are linking five reports in Angmering, East Preston and Rustington to a man in a silver car.