A MASKED man who tried to snatch a six-year-old girl in Chatham is being hunted by police.

The child was with her sister and another friend in Ordnance Street near a block of flats when a man picked her up and started carrying her down steps leading to a car park.

The other two girls kicked him until he released the victim and he then got into a small van and drove away.

The attempted abduction was between 5.30pm and 6.10pm on Wednesday.

The offender is described as white, 5ft 6in tall, wearing a black balaclava and a black top and trousers.

He spoke with a North Eastern accent.

Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information should contact PC Peter Leeming at Rochester Police Station on 01634 884212.