A woman who was attacked by a masked man on a Stevenage footpath was protected by her dog, say police.

They are appealing for anyone who can help with their investigation in the wake of the attack on Monday evening.

The woman, in her 50s, was walking her dog at about 9.20pm on Kimbolton Crescent, along a footpath that runs along the dyke near Hertford Road.

She was grabbed by the shoulder by a 6ft tall man who was wearing black gloves and a black balaclava, but her dog bit his clothing and he ran off.

The woman was not injured but the suspect used enough force to cause pain to her shoulder.

Anyone who witnessed what happened, saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area or anyone who has any information which could help the investigation is asked to contact PC Paul Newell via the Herts Police non-emergency number 101 quoting crime reference number E1/16/110.

You can also get in touch with Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will never need to go to court.