A 12-year-old girl was attacked by a hooded man as she admired a nativity scene.

The young victim had become separated from her friends in Glasgow's George Square at the time she was approached by her attacker, who assaulted her and demanded money.

He fled after a member of the public stepped in. The victim was uninjured but badly shaken.

The suspect is described as black, between 17 and 25 years of age, around 5ft 7in tall and of medium to muscular build. He wore baggy, grey and cream combat trousers - which hung low to show off white underwear - with a grey waistband. He had a black Nike top with the hood up.

George Square was busy with visitors to the city's winter festival display at the time, last Thursday around 8pm.

The attack has been condemned by church leaders.

A Catholic Church spokesman said: "This is a despicable incident made even worse by the age of the child and the location of the attack.

"I am sure all Glaswegians will be ashamed to think that a child could be subjected to such an ordeal while visiting the crib scene in the heart of the city."

Officers from Anderston Police are appealing for witnesses, and particularly want to speak to the man who came to the girl's aid.

The contact number is 0141 532 3232.