At around 11.45am on Friday 14 August a woman was pushing her young nephew on the swings at the Cygnet play area in Poole Park and her three-year-old daughter was standing next to her.

She then realised her daughter had left her side and saw her being led toward the exit of the park by a woman who was holding her hand. The mother challenged the woman, who let go of the girl’s hand and claimed she thought the youngster was lost.

The woman was with three men and the group all left the park immediately.

The woman is described as having long wavy brown hair and tanned skin and was wearing bright orange shorts and a matching top. It is believed she spoke in an Eastern European accent.

The four men were described as being in their 30s, all had dark brown, short hair and stubbly beards.

“We are carrying out enquiries to establish the identities of those involved in this incident so we can take their accounts and establish exactly what happened,” said Jess Pearcey of Poole police.

“While we cannot second guess the intentions of the group involved and there is nothing at this stage to confirm any sinister motive, we understand this must have been a concerning incident for the mother of the young girl and we are carrying out a full investigation into this matter.

“I would urge anyone who was in the area and witnessed this incident or who has any information that can assist our investigation to please contact us.

“I would also appeal to the group involved to come forward so we can get their accounts of the incident.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200122230. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.