A SEX pest who preys on schoolgirls in Accrington is still at large in the town after two years of offences.

Police are continuing the hunt for the man who has exposed himself to more than 40 women and girls.

Most of the offences have been committed in the Milnshaw and Whalley Road areas - many in front of young girls.

Officers on the trail of the man say they are still receiving information from women who have suffered incidents involving a man fitting his description.

The man, who police believe could live in Whalley Road, has been reported to expose himself and, on some occasions, commit a sex act.

The latest offence was committed more than a fortnight ago but police believe the man may have calmed his activity during half-term.

He is described as white, about 5ft 9ins, fat, mid-30s, muscular or stocky, with dark, wavy hair and a "weathered complexion".

Some witnesses have also said he has a moustache and wears a dark, woollen hat.

PC Angela Marsh of Accrington Police said: "It may be that the offences have stopped because it was half term last week, so the schools are still on full alert.

"A liaison officer has revisited schools to warn them about this man and we are anxious to catch him as soon as possible."

Anyone with information can contact PC Marsh at Accrington Police on 01254 382141.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.