TWO teenage girls have been left "shaken up" after being grabbed by a man before they managed to escape their attacker. 

Essex Police have launched an investigation following a reported assault in Magdalen Street, Colchester, at about 6pm on October 25. 

The victims were walking in the area when a man who was laying on the ground got up and grabbed one of the girls by the shoulder and the other by the wrist.

Both of the teenagers thankfully managed to pull themselves away from the assailant before fleeing the scene.

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The attacker, who left the area towards Hythe Hill, has since been described as a white, six-feet tall man wearing a rainbow t-shirt, black tracksuit bottoms and black trainers.

PC Nathan O’Sullivan, who is investigating the incident, said: “Thankfully, neither victim was injured during this incident but both girls were understandably shaken up as a result of it.

“I would like to locate the man described and I would appeal to anyone who recognises the description to come forward and speak to us.

"We believe the man involved may have been intoxicated at the time.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about the man is asked to submit a report online at essex.police.uk.

Citing incident numbers 42/242435/21 or 42/242439/21 the police can also be called on 101 or Crimestoppers can be contact on 0800 555 111.