DETECTIVES are hunting a motorist who has repeatedly tried to entice children into his car.

The vehicle was an old, dark green or black BMW with dark or tinted windows. The driver followed youngsters in the Bishopstoke and Fair Oak areas on three occasions within four days last month.

Police say he stopped alongside them and beckoned them to get into the vehicle.

Now, they have revealed that he has made two more attempts - one in Shakespeare Road, Boyatt Wood, Eastleigh, on January 3 and another at Fratton Way, Fair Oak, on Monday.

Although none of the children have so far got into the vehicle, detectives say they are keen to trace the driver to establish his motive and to prevent other children being approached.

Det Sgt Darren Rawlings said: "This man has not attempted to grab any of the children but his behaviour is a concern to us and we do need the help of all members of the community to help us trace this vehicle and the driver."

He appealed for anyone who knew of a BMW matching the description to come forward so that police could speak to the owner and eliminate them from their inquiries.

Police are working closely with schools in the area to ensure that pupils are warned about "stranger danger" and to emphasise the message that they should not get into any vehicle. Youngsters are also being asked to contact the police immediately if they are approached.

Detectives say the man they are looking for is white, aged 30 to 45 years with very short or possibly cropped brown hair and a deep voice. The driver sometimes travels alone but was accompanied by a male passenger on one occasion.

Anyone who has any information can contact police on 0845 045 4545 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.