Two teenage girls fell ill after a male reportedly forced 'sweets' into their mouths and struck one in the face on Halloween.

The 16-year-olds were approached in Park Avenue, Bushey, at around 7.15pm and became unwell a short time the attack, police said today (November 6) while appealing for information.

Both were taken to hospital to be checked but were later discharged with no serious injuries or concerns.

The male was described as being white, around 6ft tall and of slim build. He was wearing a red and white mask, a black Nike tracksuit and black trainers.

Detective Constable Gemma Haines said: “I understand that this incident has caused concern among the local community.

“I’d like to reassure people that thorough enquiries are being carried out to establish exactly what happened and how the girls came to be unwell.

“Forensic tests have been completed and we’re awaiting the results.”

Officers have been conducting house to house enquiries, spoken to potential witnesses, and reviewed all possible CCTV.

The detective constable added: “To ensure that every possible avenue is explored, we’re extending our appeal and asking anyone else with information to please come forward.

“Did you see someone in the area matching the description given? Did you capture any CCTV, doorbell or dash cam footage?

“If you can help, please get in touch.”

Information can be reported by email to gemma.haines@herts.police.uk, online at herts.police.uk/report, or by calling 101, quoting crime reference 41/91830/24.