POLICE have released an e-fit of a man after a schoolgirl was approached by a stranger in Hale.

At around 12.30pm on Friday July 15, a 13-year-old girl was walking on Hale Road on her way home from school when a man driving a small silver car pulled up next to her.

The man asked the girl for directions, which she gave him, before offering her a lift to where she was going.

The girl refused but the man again asked her to get in the car, saying that she should get in because it is raining.

Again she refused his offer and the man drove off.

He is described as a white man, aged between 50 and 60 with short grey hair and short stubble. He was wearing dark rimmed glasses and spoke with a local accent.

Detective Sergeant Dan Hayes from GMP’s Trafford borough said: “I understand this is a worrying incident which will no doubt cause concern but I want to assure everybody that we have launched a full investigation.

“The young girl was approached but refused to go with the man, which is a testament to her as she could have easily been tempted to take up the offer of a lift when it was raining.

“I would like to appeal to anyone who recognises the man in the e-fit to please get in touch. Likewise if you are the man who was involved in this incident and feel there is a different side to this report then come forward and give us your version of events.”

Anybody with information should contact police on 0161 856 7530 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.