DETECTIVES are hunting a sex pest who is preying on schoolgirls across four London boroughs.

Twenty-three attacks have taken place usually between 7am and 9.30am as the victims make their way to school.

In every case, the man approaches the schoolgirls from behind, tries to lift their skirts and in some cases touches their legs before running off.

He has also been heard to apologise before fleeing.

Police believe the same man is responsible for the attacks that started in Barnet on June 23 last year.

A further ten offences were committed in Enfield, three in Waltham Forest, eight in Barnet and two in Redbridge.

Officers linked the offences when it became clear that a pattern was emerging.

Detectives describe the suspect as white, aged 30 or older, of slim to medium build with greying hair and possibly blue eyes.

On several occasions he wore a long black raincoat and black woolly hat.

Officers from the Sapphire Unit at Enfield police are leading the investigation. Two men have been arrested, but subsequently eliminated from the inquiry.

Detective Inspector Caroline Haines, who is leading the inquiry said: “While these incidents are clearly of concern and very distressing for the victims involved, thankfully none of the offences has resulted so far in any injury.”

She said no specific schools had been targeted, but officers had spoken with headteachers on how to safeguard pupils.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sapphire Unit on 020 8345 4326, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Have you been a victim of the attacker or do you know someone affected? Contact reporter Sarah Cosgrove in confidence, on 020 8884 7415, or email scosgrove@london.newsquest.co.uk