More than 30 police officers have been knocking on doors in the area where a man tried to abduct a 12-year-old girl yesterday.

A tall bald man grabbed the 12-year-old by the wrists and said "come with me" to her as she walked along an alley between Beddington Park and Meller Close at about 5.45pm yesterday.

The girl was able to escape by wriggling out of her hooded top and running away.

Police have stepped up patrols in the area and 35 officers, led by Detective Inspector Sarah Rees, spent the afternoon knocking on doors to appeal for information about the incident.

Det Insp Rees said; "We've done a street briefing and are going door-to-door doing a witness appeal in an effort to find the offender and gather information.

"At the moment we're supporting the victim and she is helping us with our investigation. She has the full support of her family."

Det Insp Rees said the man is believed to have taken al route along Croydon Road to the junction with Guy Road, then down Guy Road to where a bridge leads into the alley where the assault happened near the junction with Beddington Lane.

Anyone who saw the suspect, who is white, bald, about 6ft 3in, slim and spoke with a local accent, in the area is asked to contact police.

Police say they have not had any other reports of attempted abductions in the area but are warning parents to make sure they know where their children are and ensure they have planned routes home.

Schools have been made aware of the incident.

If you saw the incident or were in the park at the time or you think you know the suspect you can call Sutton CID on 020 8649 0747 or the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.