A MAN driving a BMW tried to manhandle a teenage girl into his car yesterday afternoon.

Now police have launched an appeal in a bid to track down anyone who may have witnessed the frightening incident.

At approximately 4.30pm a 16-year-old girl was walking along the pavement on Kingswood Avenue, near to the high rise flats on Banwell Avenue, when a dark blue or black BMW pulled up alongside her.

The male occupant jumped out and shouted "Oi, can I have your help please?" he then grabbed the teenager by the arms.

The girl managed to struggle free by kicking the male and then ran off. It's believed the male got back in to the car and drove off.

He is described as being dark skinned, at least 6ft tall, slim with skinny legs and a bald, shaved head. He was wearing a black Adidas top and shorts.

PC Tom Gregory said: "This was obviously a frightening experience for the victim.

“I would like to reassure members of the public that we take reports like this very seriously and are carrying out a thorough investigation.

"This was a busy area on a hot, sunny afternoon - someone should have heard or seen something.

"Irrespective of how trivial it may appear, if you heard or saw anything suspicious in this area of Swindon around this time or recognise the description of the car or male - please contact me."

If you can help police with their enquiries contact PC Tom Gregory on 101 or anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.