Police are hunting a man who approached two nine-year-old girls at a Witham playground and threatened one with a knife
The girls were playing on swings by Stevens Road, near The John Bramston School, when the attack happened at 7.30pm yesterday.
A police spokesman said: "They were approached by a man, who tried to engage them in conversation but the girls, being streetwise, said: 'Sorry, I do not know who you are' and began walking away
"The man grabbed one of the girls and held a knife to her throat."
The girl screamed and struggled and was able to escape her attacker.
Both girls then ran away.
The Essex Police helicopter was scrambled to search for the man and a specialist dog unit was brought into the hunt.
But the man was not found.
The attacker was described as white, 5ft 8in tall, with brown cropped hair and in his early 20s.
If you witnessed anything in the area, or know anything about the attack, call Braintree police on 01376 551312
Published Tuesday, June 24, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article