A MAN has been arrested after an 11-year-old girl received support from the authorities following a sexual assault on Southend's seafront earlier this week.

On Thursday, June 1, an incident took place at Adventure Island, where a young girl was sexually assaulted while on a ride at the amusement park.

Prompted by reports, officers swiftly arrived at the scene around 3pm.

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The suspect, described as a white man in his late 50s, with short, grey hair, and wearing a green t-shirt and sunglasses, was apprehended by the investigating officers from Southend Criminal Investigation Department.

They took into custody a 57-year-old man from Chelmsford in connection with the ongoing investigation.

To ensure the girl's well-being and recovery, she is receiving support from specialist officers.

Meanwhile, authorities are continuing their inquiries into the matter.

In light of this distressing incident, Essex Police has made a plea to the public for assistance.

A spokesman from Essex Police said: "We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this assault or have any further information to contact us.

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"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

"Alternatively you can call us on 101.

"In an emergency always call 999.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

"Please quote incident 42/98038/23 when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible."