A 14-year-old girl was grabbed as she walked along a footpath by a man wearing a hooded top.

The teenager was walking on the path that runs alongside the railway track next to Munro Way in Livingston, West Lothian, at about 8.40pm on Monday when the man grabbed her by the wrist.

He only let go and ran off towards Morrsion Way when another man who was walking his dog heard the girl scream and intervened.

Police are also investigating a similar incident that took place nearby less than an hour earlier when another teenage girl was approached by a man.

The 19-year-old was walking along Dechmont Wood path near Ogilvie Way at 8pm on Monday when the man appeared from a wooded area and began to follow her.

This caused her alarm and she ran off in the direction of Knightsridge East Road.

Inquires are ongoing to identify the men involved and anyone who can assist investigating officers have been asked to come forward.

Both suspects are described as white men in their 30s and around 5ft 9in with a slim build.

The man who grabbed the 14-year-old was wearing a dark grey hooded top with the hood up with grey bottoms and black shoes.

The suspect in the second incident is described as having dark scruffy hair and a spotty face.

When he approached the 19-year-old he was wearing a navy blue hooded top, black trousers and white trainers.

He was also carrying a blue carrier bag.

Detective sergeant Dennis Langton from Livingston CID said: "Fortunately both victims were uninjured, however, extremely distressed by the behaviour and actions of the suspect.

"We are keen to speak to anyone who was in or around Ogilvie Way or the footpaths near to Munro Way and the railway line on Monday evening.

"In particular, we would like to trace the man who was walking his black Labrador dog and who came to the young girl's aid, as he may have more information that can help us trace the male responsible."

He added: "If you believe you have any information relevant to this investigation then please get in touch.

"In the meantime, additional high visibility patrols will be undertaken by officers in and around the local area."

Those with information can contact Livingston Police Station via 101 or alternatively, an anonymous report can be made through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.