A MAN arrested on suspicion of accosting two schoolgirls on Canvey has been released without charge.

Police launched an investigation after a suspected pervert approached the girls, aged 15, as they walked alone.

He stopped one at Castle Point Golf Course, in Somnes Avenue, but she managed to run away. The man gave chase, but she was able to give him the slip.

The second girl was approached in Thorney Bay Road.

The man pulled over in a grey hatchback and asked her to get in.

When she declined he said “OK”, but ominously said he would see her tomorrow. He then gave up and drove away.

The first incident happened at about 4.45pm on Monday March 1, the second at about 8.10pm on Tuesday, March 16.

Police have now arrested a man in his 50s, who is from Southend, but later released him without charge.

They are now appealing for more information about and are focusing their energies on a grey hatchback with blacked-out windows which they believe the culprit was using.

Anyone with information should call PC Christian Howell at Canvey police station on 0300 3334444 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.