Police hunt witnesses after attempted abduction of young child last weekend in Chesham

The incident took place between 12.30pm and 1pm on Saturday (21/3) on a grass area in The Bury, near to Pednor Road, in Chesham.

Two children, both under the age of 11, were playing on the grass.

One of the children temporarily left the area, and after doing so the offender approached the other child and picked her up.

He walked approximately 20 feet carrying the child, before the second child returned, and the offender put her down and fled into a woodland area.

Neither child received any injuries during the incident.

The offender is described as a white man, aged approximately 40, around 5ft 7ins and of an average build. He was dressed in a coat, believed to be blue or black, a brown t-shirt and was carrying a rucksack.

He also had a distinctive tattoo on his arm of a lion, and was drinking from a green bottle.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Chris Gould, of Aylesbury police station, said: “I am appealing for witnesses to this incident, which was a frightening experience for a young child.

“Thankfully, both children were completely unharmed during this incident, but we are appealing for witnesses in order to fully establish the circumstances.

“I understand that an incident of this nature would cause concern within the community, but I would like to reassure the public that it is being thoroughly investigated and the victims are being supported fully.

“If anyone was in the area at this time, and believes they saw something, I would ask them to make contact with police.

“Alternatively, if someone recognises the description of the offender, or believes they saw him at a time before or after this incident took place, then please speak to us.

“Please contact Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting 43200094264 if you can help. You can also make a report online here, or call Crimestoppers for 100% anonymity on 0800 555 111.”