Police hunt suspect after night assault on woman

Police have released an e-fit of a suspect wanted in connection with an assault in Ashford.

A woman in her 40s was on her way home from work between 11.30pm and midnight last Wednesday.

She was walking along Leacon Road at the junction with Victoria Way when a man grabbed her from behind.

The victim was able to break free and the suspect ran off in the direction of Victoria Road.

Det Insp Andrew Bidmead said: “My team of detectives have made a number of inquiries and are following a series of leads and would like to hear from anyone who may be able to identify the man in the e-fit image.

“Thankfully, incidents of this nature are rare in Ashford, but I would urge anyone walking alone late at night to stick to well-lit and busy areas, avoid shortcuts through isolated areas and wear bright clothing so you can be seen.

‘I would urge anyone walking alone late at night to stick to well-lit and busy areas’

“Look and act confidently – look like you know where you are going and be alert to what is going on around you.”

The suspect is white, aged between 25 and 26 years old, and is about 5ft 5in tall, of medium build with shoulder length straight brown hair.

He was wearing a red, grey and black chequered shirt, which was open with a T-shirt underneath and black jeans.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det Sgt Benjamin Loose on 01303 289404 quoting reference ZY/27624/14.

Alternatively, contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.