A woman has been left with cuts and bruises after fighting off a man who attempted to rape her on Sunday.

The woman, who is in her 30s, was walking in the Bedwell area between 5.45am and 6.15am when a man approached her from behind.

He tried to force her to the ground, but she fought him off and ran away.

The woman received bruising to her arms and legs and a bump on the head.

It is believed the man, who was wearing a dark jacket and is described as being stocky, would have sustained scratches, cuts and/or bruises to his face.

Police are now appealing for witnesses and information.

Det Con Kate Rickard is investigating the incident. She said: “While this is undoubtedly a worrying incident, it is unusual and we would ask the public, particularly local residents, to assist us with our investigation.

“As it happened in the very early hours of the morning, anyone who was around at this time would have stood out.

“I would like to hear from anyone who remembers seeing anyone or anything suspicious in the Bedwell area between the stated times.

“Any information, however seemingly insignificant, could prove very useful to our investigation.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact DC Rickard via the police non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference E1/15/873.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or through the secure online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.