DETECTIVES are renewing their appeal for information following an attack on an eight-year-old boy in a play area.

The assault took place on the Beechings Green recreation ground, off Beechings Way, Gillingham, on Wednesday, August 3.

Initial reports suggested the young boy was dragged away from his friend and sexually assaulted, as he was playing under skating ramps at about 12.45pm.

Officers are now describing the attack as a physical assault, but have renewed their appeal for certain people to contact them as a matter of urgency,

Officers are still trying to trace the attacker, who was said to be of distinctive appearance - fat and with no front teeth.

In particular, Medway police are appealing for:

* Any motorist in Beechings Way and or near to the junction with Eastcourt Lane August 3 between 12.15 pm and 1pm to come forward.

* A white youth aged 15, who is described as tall with dark hair who was carrying a ball and who was walking towards the Broadway, Twydall. It is believed the youth may have seen a man in Beechings Green holding a boy and who then told the man to let go.

* The boy’s attacker is described as aged 50 -70 years, about 5ft 10in and overweight. His front teeth were missing and he was wearing a blue fishing hat, a yellow T-shirt and a green pair of trousers.

Det Con Graham Oliver said: “I would appeal for any motorists who were in the area and the youth to come forward as they may have information relevant to the investigation.”

Det Con Oliver added: “The man has a very distinctive appearance and we would appeal for anyone who may have seen this man to contact us as a matter of urgency.”

Police are appealing for anyone who may have information is asked to contact Medway Police on 01634 884252 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

All calls to Crimestoppers are free and are treated in the strictest of confidence.