POLICE hunting an attacker who molested a young girl as she walked along a street in Woodchurch say they have arrested a 24-year-old homeless man.

The suspect is in custody at a police station in Merseyside and is being questioned.

The arrrest is in connection with an assault on Monday night when a 15-year-old was in New Hey Road and was approached by an unknown man.

He grabbed the girl inappropriately before getting into a nearby dark coloured car and driving away.

The girl went home and police were alerted.

Although uninjured, the victim has been left shaken following her ordeal.

Police patrols have been increased in the area and officers are appealing for information.

Detective Sergeant Stephen Holmes said: "I would like to reassure the community that incidents like this are rare and we are taking it extremely seriously.

"I would urge anyone who witnessed this incident or anyone with information to contact us.”

An investigation into the full circumstances is on-going.

Anyone with information should contact Merseyside Police on 0151 777 2265 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.