Two young girls were left upset and shaken after being chased down the street by a clown carrying a toy knife.

Police believe the incident in Felixstowe was a prank, but have warned people with similar intentions that they may be subject to arrest.

Officers were called to a report that two young girls were approached by a person dressed in a clown costume, and carrying what is thought have been a toy knife, in Langer Road on Monday, October 9, at about 4.30pm.

The girls ran off and were chased a short distance. They were upset and shaken, but otherwise unharmed.

A police spokesman said: “Whilst it is believed that this was a prank incident, and nothing more sinister was intended, we would remind members of the public to be more aware of how they act in public places.

“They could be committing public order offences and may be subject to arrest.”

Anyone with information on the incident should call 101, quoting 66062/17.