A teenage girl grabbed by a stranger as she walked along at night fought back, punching him in the face.

The 17-year-old victim was in Port Lane, in New Town, Colchester, just before 9pm yesterday, when she was grabbed around the waist by a man.

He tried to pull her into an alleyway but she hit him, possibly injuring him, and he fled towards Barrack Street.

Acting Det Sgt Mike Sheeran, of Colchester CID, today appealed for anyone who thinks they know the man to come forward.

He said: "If there were people in the area at the time or somebody you know has returned with a facial injury that's unexplained, a call would be appreciated.

"There is very little description of the man. As he grabbed her, it appears he tried to pull her into an alleyway, but she fought him off and escaped.

"She has no visible injuries. He grabbed her round the waist and she managed to fight him off and struck him in the face, possibly causing an injury."

Information to police on 01206 762212, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Published Friday, December 17, 2004

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