POLICE are hunting a man who took hold of a young girl's coat as he attempted to lure her into his van.
The seven-year-old managed to escape and is recovering after the encounter in Braintree.
She told police a man in a yellow van had stopped beside her, got out and started talking to her in Church Street, near to its junction with The Lillies.
He offered her a lift and when she refused, grabbed at her coat and tried to coax her.
The girl was able to break free and run away.
The man was described as about 40, of mixed race, with short dark hair and stubble.
He was wearing a white T-shirt, black jacket and dark blue jeans.
The incident happened on Thursday, October 5.
Anyone with information on the incident should call Braintree police on 01376 551312.
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