A WOMAN was left “distressed” after a man propositioned her in an alarming incident in broad daylight in Colchester.

Police officers attended the scene in Berechurch Road, Colchester, on Saturday.

The incident took place shortly after 11am when the woman was approached by a man who spoke to her before he propositioned her.

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Essex Police subsequently arrested a 21-year-old man on suspicion of a public order offence.

A force spokesman said: “We were called shortly after 11am on Saturday to reports of an incident where a woman was left distressed.

“It was reported a man approached the victim and propositioned her in Berechurch Road, Colchester.

“A 21 year-old man was later arrested on suspicion of a public order offence.”

The man was also arrested on suspicion of indecent exposure and sexual assault in connection with a separate incident in Middlewick Close on February 10.

Essex Police confirmed he has since been released on bail until March 15.

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Berechurch councillor Dave Harris says he has asked the police to increase patrols in the area amid concerns for residents’ safety.

He described the incident as shocking and urged people to be vigilant.

He said: “I’ve got daughters, a wife and many friends here and I will be telling all of them to look after themselves.

“I am concerned and have contacted the police to see if they can step up their patrols, but if anyone sees someone prowling or acting suspiciously they shouldn’t be alarmed but should report it.

“It’s up to us to ensure we keep vigilant and look out for each other.”

Essex Police has now urged residents who saw anything or has any CCTV, dash cam, or doorbell footage to support its investigation to come forward.

If you have any information you can submit a report online at www.essex.police.uk or use the live chat button to speak to an online operator.

You should quote the crime reference number 42/43663/22.