A 51-year-old man has been arrested following at least 26 sexual attacks in south east London that police have linked - the youngest victim being just 8-years-old.

Police arrested the man in Bromley, and he currently remains in custody.

At least 26 allegations have been made of sexual attacks across Bromley, Lewisham, Greenwich, Bexley and Southwark.

The series of assaults, which have been treated as linked by police, typically took place during rush hour periods and often near schools, with victims being young women and girls.

The first incident is believed to have taken place in October 2016 - a 13-year-old girl was sexually assaulted in Foxfield Road, Orpington at around 9.15am.

Since then, there have been dozens more attacks - many on school girls.

The last reported assault was committed on Monday, January 8 .

A 12-year-old girl reported an attempted robbery at approximately 7.30am on Grierson Road junction with Gabriele Street in Lewisham. The officers are linking this to the series and treating it as an attempted sexual assault.

Police have increased patrols in the areas where offences have been reported, and have also worked with local schools to reassure pupils and parents.

Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Furphy of Lewisham police, leading the investigation, said: "We are aware that there might be further victims who have not yet spoken to police; if you are a victim, or know someone who has been a victim of a sexual assault, I can assure you your information will be treated with strict confidence and sensitivity and we can also access specialist support where needed."

Anyone with information should contact the incident room on 0208 284 8346 or call 101 or tweet @MetCC. Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.