A man who followed a ten-year-old girl and made a series of obscene remarks is being hunted by police.

Women and girls in Totton are being warned not to walk alone in secluded areas following the incident on a cycleway and footpath known as the Green Route.

The girl was walking along the path when she heard footsteps and realised someone was walking closely behind her.

Police say the man made lewd remarks but did not attempt to touch the child.

Detectives are linking the incident with reports of a serial sex pest who has exposed himself to women and teenage girls in Totton and neighbouring areas.

As reported in the Daily Echo, the offender has struck at Totton Health and Leisure Centre and two other sites in the town, Bartley Park and Hazel Farm Road.

A similar offence was committed in Bolton's Bench Cemetery, Lyndhurst - a short drive down the A35.

The incident involving the ten-year-old girl occurred on a footpath between Hazel Farm Way and Calmore Road on Thursday, just after 4pm.

Acting Det Sgt Matt Taylor said: "This incident is being taken very seriously.

"Members of the community should not be alarmed but we would advise young girls and women to avoid walking alone in secluded areas."

The man police are looking for is described as white, aged 40-45, about 5ft 9in, with short black gelled hair.

He was wearing an aubergine-coloured shirt, black trousers and black shoes.