A man has been charged after several lone female runners were approached and asked for piggybacks.

The 46-year-old is facing threatening and abusive behaviour charges following several reports of suspicious activity in the Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Montrose, Angus.

Police issued an appeal earlier this week after an alleged incident in Laurencekirk on August 7, while another three are said to have taken place on the old Deeside railway line between August 28 and September 3.

Sergeant Andy Peerless said: "I would like to thank all those who responded to our appeal for assistance. The information provided to us from the public was vital.

"Enquiries into this investigation are still ongoing and I would ask anyone with information to contact Police on 101."

A report has been sent to the procurator fiscal and the man is expected to appear in court at a later date.