POLICE scrambled the force helicopter as well as patrol cars after a report of a man on the prowl in Swindon's Coate Water country park.

A park ranger alerted officers at just gone 1pm yesterday, saying he had received a report that a naked man was seen running by the park's pitch and putt course.

"Though an extensive search was made of the park, including a check of the car park, nothing was found," said Swindon police spokeswoman Alvina Kumar.

The man is described as a young, white man with blonde hair.

Anyone who can help police with their inquiries should call either Swindon 528111 or the Crimestoppers line, in confidence, on 0800 555111.