A SCHOOLGIRL in Maldon was reportedly followed by a man in a car "acting suspiciously".

Police have launched an investigation after a teenage girl reported being followed by a man in a black car.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "We are investigating a report of a man acting suspiciously in the Fambridge Road area of Maldon shortly after 7pm on Friday, December 3."

The incident occurred close to the junction with Limebrook Way.

"Thankfully the girl was able to leave the area and return home," the spokesman added.

Carl Wakefield, headteacher of Plume Academy in Maldon, informed parents and carers of the "concerning incident" in a letter.

Mr Wakefield said the man is believed to have been dressed in black and wearing a balaclava.

He also wrote of how the student reportedly had to hide in bushes until the car drove away and she is "understandably extremely distressed by the incident".

Witnesses and anyone with dash cam footage at the time is urged to contact police quoting incident 1063 of Friday December 3.

A report can be submitted at essex.police.uk, or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

Police can be called on 101.

Information can be given to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.