Man spotted in bushes at Weston Shore, Southampton was not taking pictures of children

A man believed to be taking photographs of young children on the beach at Weston Shore was spotted on Thursday afternoon.

However, according to police the man had enjoyed one or two too many alcoholic drinks, and did not know where the nearest public toilets where.

Officers reportedly examined the man's phone which was broken and could not take photographs.

They have since reassured the public that the incident was a "misunderstanding".

A police spokesperson said: "We received reports yesterday of a male hiding in the bushes at Weston Shore, believed to be taking photographs of young children on the beach.

"This has understandably raised a lot of concern in the community.

"Thankfully we can reassure you that this was a misunderstanding.

"We spoke, via an interpreter, to the male in question, who had enjoyed one or two too many alcoholic beverages, and did not know where the nearest public toilets were, so went into the bushes to relieve himself.

"He was holding his phone in his hand at the time.

"We have examined his phone and can confirm it is broken and does not have the capacity to take photographs, so he was definitely not taking photographs of anyone, let alone children.

"So, there is no reason for alarm or concern."