Man who stalked girls faces jail

A paedophile who targeted young girls outside schools in south London faces a jail sentence.

James Hayward, 20, began his three-month campaign in March 2007 when he pounced on a 15-year-old schoolgirl.

Twelve weeks later he tried to kidnap a 10-year-old girl on her way home, Inner London Crown Court heard.

Hayward, formerly from Underhill Road, East Dulwich, south-east London, was convicted of sexual assault and attempted kidnapping.

He was cleared of a second attempted kidnapping.

Outside court, Det Sgt Jon Summers praised the victims for their "fortitude", adding: "It's as a result of the courage and commitment that this result has been achieved.

"It's a massive relief that the streets of south-east London are safer this evening," he added.

Hayward was remanded in custody until next month.