Children approached north of Sydney

A brother and sister on a bike ride told police they were grabbed and followed by a stranger in Newcastle.

Two children have been forced to hide from a man who approached and followed them north of Sydney.

A boy and girl, 10 and 11, were riding along a bike track at Kotara, in Newcastle, on Friday when they spotted a man ahead of them.

Police have been told the man grabbed the boy and spoke to him.

The boy dropped his bike and ran off with his sister.

They pair hid from the man, who followed the children, before making their way home.

Police are looking for a man described as 60-70 years old, 180-185cm tall with a thin build, grey hair and a goatee beard.

Anyone with information can call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 00.