TWO young girls were sexually assaulted by a man in a white van, it has been alleged.

Police are appealing for information and potential witnesses as they investigate allegations of sexual assault against two young girls in Thornaby, near Stockton.

An unidentified man parked in a white Iveco-type van on Imperial Avenue, Thornaby, close to the junction of Langley Avenue, is said to have got out of his vehicle and approached the two girls before sexually assaulting them, at about 1.35pm on Saturday.

Cleveland Police did not say how old the girls were, but said they were both under ten years old.

The man returned to his van and drove off in the direction of Westbury Street after the incident.He is described as white, between 25 and 50 years old and of medium build. He has balding, or very short, fair hair and was wearing light coloured clothing.

DI Jon Tapper said: “This is clearly a very serious incident and we’re appealing for anyone who may have information to contact us. We want to know if you saw someone matching this description, the van or witnessed these assaults. Our officers are providing a reassuring presence in the area as part of our investigation.”

Anyone with information should call 101, quoting event number 193544, and ask for DC Middleton.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org