A man who reportedly hid in a bush in a busy children’s park and touched himself inappropriately is being hunted by police.

Police investigating the incident - which occurred in the children’s park area near Colnhurst Road, Watford, at around 11am on Tuesday August 8 - are appealing for witnesses and information which could help their investigation.

The man was challenged by a member of the public and fled the area in the direction of Watford Junction train station.

There were a number of families in the park at the time and officers would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident but has not yet spoken to police.

The suspect is described as being aged between 30 and 40 years old, of medium build, around 5ft 9in tall with short brown hair. He was wearing a dark puffa jacket and grey jogging bottoms.

Enquiries to trace the man are continuing at this stage.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Hertfordshire Constabulary via the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference C1/17/ 4342.