A WOMAN has been arrested after a four-year-old child was allegedly assaulted in York city centre.

The alleged assault - which involved "excessive use of force" - happened on the footpath between High Ousegate and Coppergate at around 1.30pm on Friday.

A 26-year-old woman, who was with another young child and a man when the incident happened, was arrested and has been released on police bail as inquiries continue.

The child was not injured, a spokesman for North Yorkshire Police said.

Police are asking witnesses to come forward as part of the investigation.

Det Insp Sean Page, of York police, said: “We are treating this incident very seriously and need the assistance of any members of the public who were in the area at the time and saw what happened.

“It was a busy time of day in a busy area of the city and someone must have seen something which can help the investigation. "

Anyone who can help the investigation is urged to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 or if you wish to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111.