A teenage boy wearing a balaclava demanded cash from a 10-year-old girl before kicking her as she walked home alone from school through a field.

The youth, who was aged between 14 and 16, only ran off when a woman told him to stop.

The frightening incident happened in Noakes Meadow, Ashford, between 3pm and 4.20pm Wednesday. The boy ran off towards the Willow Centre nursery into an alleyway.

He is described as white and of stocky build with brown eyes. He was wearing a black balaclava, a black hooded jumper, black jeans and black trainers.

The woman who intervened left after checking the girl - who suffered bruising - was ok and police are appealing to her to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 01303 289180 or Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.