A MANHUNT has been launched after a cyclist was reported to have grabbed a woman on her bottom before kissing another girl on the cheek.

Essex Police officers are currently searching the Dunmow area after receiving reports that a woman was touched inappropriately near Flitch Way, at about 4.15pm.

According to the victim, a man on a bicycle grabbed her bottom over her clothes while she was out walking, before kissing another girl on the cheek.

The man, who has been described as being in his mid-20s and about 5ft 8ins tall, is said to have had a shaved head and an eyebrow piercing.

At the time of the incident, he was also wearing a blue checked shirt.

Officers have since recovered the bike that he is believed to have been riding, but the force is yet to locate the man.

Over the weekend a man was arrested on suspicion of attempted rape after a woman and a girl were attacked in Dunmow.

Police, however, do not believe these two incidents are linked.

Detective inspector Frazer Low said: "I appreciate that this is a very disturbing incident for the local community, especially given the offences over the weekend.

"Whilst this is a cowardly, disgusting act, we do not believe that it is linked to the weekend's incidents.

"A man remains in custody on suspicion of these. 

"I'd like to thank the victim for coming forward and reporting this, and to the witnesses who have helped us so far."

Anyone who can help identify the man, is asked to call 101 and quote incident 730 of Monday 1 June.

Alternatively, witnesses can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.