their Southampton school was being hunted by Police today.

Yesterday they launched a widespread appeal for public help in tracing the pest.

The flasher approached the shocked children at the bus stop outside Heron Bay School, Middle Road.

He is believed to have been lying in wait for them after school hours.

Most youngsters had left for the day -- but some remained behind for sports practice or special programmes.

The children later reported the matter to their headmaster and parents.

Yesterday headmaster Mr. Alan Leigh said the youngsters appeared to have coped well with their ordeal.

"They seemed to be all right. They told me about an incident and I deemed it fit to call in the Police. It is now in their hands,'' he said.

Mr. Leigh said the local Police constable had been round to visit the school.

The incident occurred at around 5 p.m. on Tuesday -- an hour and a half after most children had left.

The bus stop is roughly 40-50 yards from the main entrance, bordering on school property.

Mr. Leigh told The Royal Gazette measures were already in place to increase safety of youngsters leaving school.

He added: "Although most children leave at 3.30 p.m., there are after care school programmes, and cricket practice.

"It's obviously our responsibility to care for children during school hours, and we do so.

"Afterward it's really the parents responsibility to pick up their children.'' President of the school's Parent Teachers' Association Dr. Kathyann White Frisby last night said she had been unaware of the incident, and would be speaking to Mr. Leigh.

"Of course it's very upsetting to hear something like that occurring and involving our children.'' The man being hunted is dark skinned, aged between 40-50, and has facial hair.

He was wearing a black hat and white sneakers with green laces.

Police spokesman Sgt. John Dale said yesterday: "We are seeking public assistance in this matter.'' Anyone who can help Police should contact Constable Kenny Dottin at Somerset Police Station (234-1010).