A terrified woman managed to struggle free after she was assaulted down a dark alley by a scar-faced attacker.

The 19-year-old victim was grabbed by the man as she walked down the passageway between Tabor Avenue and Peel Crescent, in Braintree.

He threatened her with violence but she managed to fight him off and escape.

A police spokesman said: "The girl was making her way from Tabor Avenue to Peel Crescent when she was accosted down an alleyway by a male who grabbed her and then threatened her. She struggled and broke free and the man made off."

The woman was shocked by her ordeal but escaped unhurt. She was able to give police a description of her attacker. He is described as in his late 40s or early 50s, 5ft 10in tall, and of medium build.

He had dark brown, collar-length hair and was clean-shaven.The man wore a lumberjack-style jacket which was light with dark green checks. Apparently he had a large scar on his left-hand cheek.

Det Con Kevin Collett, who is heading the case, said: "We are urging women to be use their commonsense.

"We don't want to frighten people but they should be careful if they have to walk down alleyways alone at night and take an alternative route with street lights if possible."

Police are drawing up an artist's impression of the man they are hunting.

The attack took place at about 6.30pm on Tuesday. Detectives are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to contact DC Collett on 01376 551312, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

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