SOMERSET Police have launched an appeal for witnesses after a girl was seen "forced" into a car in Wincanton, Somerset.

At about 10:30pm yesterday (November 12), a girl, believed to be aged in her mid-to-late teens, and about 5ft 5ins tall, was seen being followed by a car near the junction of The Batch and Shadwell Lane.

The car’s driver then left the vehicle and chased the girl along Shadwell Lane, before she was seen being forced into the car which was then driven off.

The man is described as white, aged in his early 20s, of medium build, and slightly taller than the girl. He had light brown hair that fell below his ears.

The car is described as a dark-coloured, five-door hatchback and it is believed there were multiple people inside it at the time.

Neighbourhood Inspector Rose Green said: “This incident will understandably cause significant concern and a thorough investigation is already well underway to fully establish the circumstances and ensure the girl is safe.

“Officers have been carrying out enquiries in the area today, including reviewing CCTV footage, and we would encourage anyone who witnessed anything or who has any information to come forward.”

If you can help, call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5224298898, or complete the police's online appeals form.

You can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form.

No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers.