Appeal for witnesses to sexual assault in Braintree

POLICE are appealing for witnesses to a sexual assault in Braintree.

Between 7.10am and 7.20am on Thursday (October 13) a man riding a bike approached a student who was walking along Rifle Hill, Braintree.

The unidentified man is described as having touched his groin area through his clothing, whilst making lewd noises. He then rode over to the teenage girl, and touched her breast through her clothing. He then left the scene.

Investigating officer Pc Sarah Brunt said: “This was a highly distressing incident for the teenage girl. Essex Police wants to find this man as soon as possible.

“He is described as a white man, aged probably in his 30s, with dark, short hair, around 6ft tall, of average to slightly heavy build, wearing dark jeans and a dark raincoat, and speaking with a deep voice and possibly a regional or northern accent.

“I would urge anyone who saw this incident or who has any information about it to contact me on 101, by calling 0300 3334444 from outside Essex, or by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”