A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of sexually grooming a child after paedophile hunters carried out a snare in Southend.

London Overwatch, an online “child protection group” confronted a man in the area around Riviera Drive, in Southend, this week as part of a “sting”.

The group claimed the man had been “grooming what he believed to be a 14-year-old girl” online, however he was speaking to a member of the group posing as a child.

Essex Police has confirmed a 42-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of sexual grooming of a child and is under investigation.

During the sting, the group claimed the man had been engaged in “sexually explicit” conversations with the girl and had arranged to meet her in Southend on April 9.

The video has since been viewed more than 108,000 times, receiving almost 6,000 comments, and more than 800 shares.

The man arrested by Essex Police has been released on bail.

Matt Dent, Labour councillor responsible for the Kursaal ward, said this should act as a reminder to parents to be vigilant and ensure their children are safe online.

He added: “This is very concerning. We all know there are some truly awful people out there sadly.

“So, I urge parents to be vigilant and looking after their children to make sure they are safe online.

“Again, well done to Essex Police and everyone involved on this.”

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We were called to an area of Southend on Tuesday, April 9, at around 6.45pm where we arrested a 42-year-old man on suspicion of sexual grooming of a child.

“He has been released on bail. Our enquiries continue.”

Anyone with information is urged to call Essex Police on 101 or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.