AN APPEAL has been launched after an attempted sexual assault on a woman in a nature reserve.

A 34-year-old woman reported to police that on Thursday, 23 November, she was grabbed from behind by a man as she walked through the nature reserve in Rooksbury, near Mill Lake.

The attempted assault happened between 4.50pm and 5.10pm.

The victim was able to get away, but did suffer minor injuries.

Police officers are conducting enquiries in the area and extra patrols are being carried out in a bid to offer reassurance to those in the neighbourhood.

Police are appealing for anyone who was in the area around the time to contact them if they witnessed what happened or if they saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area.

Call 101, quoting the reference number 44170456990, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.