AVON and Somerset Police have revealed a young girl was "distressed" after an encounter with a man known to engage in anti social behaviour in a residential area of Somerset.

The incident took place on Garston Street in Shepton Mallet, where Julian House have recently opened a new homeless shelter.

Many locals were concerned to find out the shelter had opened almost two months prior to them initially being consulted on September 25. 

Initially, the premises did not receive any on-site supervision between the hours of 8pm and 8am.

This week, Julian House have apologised - and announced they are recruiting for new staff, who will be on site until 1am.

Speaking on the incident involving a young girl, a police spokesperson said: "Police enquiries continue following a report that a 12-year-old girl was distressed by a man whistling and shouting in Garston Street, Shepton Mallet, shortly before 4pm on Monday 25 September.

"There have been reports elsewhere in the town of a man shouting and causing alarm to residents and passersby.

"A suspect has been identified and spoken to by officers from the neighbourhood policing team, who are working with the anti-social behaviour (ASB) team to tackle the problem behaviour.

"Officers are also liaising with Somerset Council to ensure the individual can access relevant support services.

"If you have witnessed or been affected by this anti-social behaviour, please contact the neighbourhood team, giving the reference 5223234808."

Julian House have confirmed that the perpetrator was staying at their new shelter at The Dusthole inn prior to the incident.

"Even though this alleged incident took place off site, by someone who was no longer staying at the Dusthole, Julian House would still have a keen interest in knowing about it.

"Our understanding is that staff from the Somerset Council, East Homeless Outreach Team are in touch with the individual and looking at ways to address the issues which have placed them on the street. 

"Likewise, they will be discouraging any form of anti-social behaviour. 

"The individual concerned has been known to sleep rough in and around the town for the last 2+ years."