POLICE are stepping up patrols in Bromsgrove town centre after reports of a man inappropriately approaching a group of teenage girls.

The incident happened in Mill Lane at around 6.30pm on Monday, June 1.

A witness told the Advertiser the man grabbed his arm after he challenged him.

"I heard the girls say 'inappropriate' when I walked past so I stopped," the passer-by said.

"He said he wanted the bank, so I told him where the banks were.

"I asked the girls what he was asking and they said 'friendship'.

"He grabbed my arm, I shook him off and called police on 999."

Sergeant Stephen O'Neill confirmed: “We are currently investigating an incident where it is believed a man approached a group of teenage girls in Mill Lane, Bromsgrove, at around 6.30pm on Monday 1 June.

“A short while later a passer-by overheard what was being said and confronted the man.

"We are increasing our patrols in the local area and we would ask anyone who saw this incident or has any information to contact us on 101 quoting 0588S of 010620.”