A MAJOR investigation into accosting incidents in Clacton is still underway after a suspect was released without charge.

Two teenage boys were approached in separate incidents last Saturday.

It is thought both teens were targeted by the same man, but ran away after becoming suspicious of his intentions.

The culprit tried to lead one of the youngsters into an alley off Dudley Road, while the other boy was approached less than three hours later in Coppins Road.

A major police operation was launched following the incidents and a 43-year-old man from Clacton was arrested on Wednesday in connection with the accostings.

But he has now been released without charge and police are planning no further action against him.

Officers have renewed their appeal for information.

Det Insp Leighton Hammett said: "Following our appeal several people have contacted us to report other possible accostings or suspicious behaviour by a man in the St Johns Road area dating back to September 27.

“There have been no attempts to grab any of these children but we would ask people to remain vigilant and make sure their children do not speak to strangers and that they understand the importance of telling them if they are approached.

“We will be carrying out additional patrols in Clacton to provide reassurance and I would ask anyone with information to speak to our officers.”

The suspect is described as about 6ft tall and aged about 50, of large build and with receding grey or white hair. He spoke with a London accent.

In the first incident he was thought to be wearing a black shirt and blue jeans, while the report from the second incident said he was wearing a black beanie hat and black cargo trousers.