An investigation has been launched following a report of a sexual assault on a rural Canterbury footpath.

A man approached a woman walking between Merton Lane North and Stuppington Lane before making abusive comments to her and sexually assaulting her.

The suspect is said to have left the scene on a bicycle following the attack at about 6.20pm on Wednesday.

It is thought the man could have been riding an e-bike.

He is described as white, about 5ft feet, 8in and was in his early 20s.

He was reportedly wearing a dark blue hooded jumper, black trousers and a bandana.

Investigating officers want to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time and saw anything suspicious, or who has dashcam or domestic CCTV.

Police are particularly keen to speak to a man seen walking his dog in the area around the time the offence was reported to have happened.

Anyone with information is urged to call 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/84531/22.