Officers investigating a late night sex assault the centre of Chatham by a man wearing a poppy in his coat buttonhole have issued an e-fit of the suspect.

A woman has told police she was attacked in Rope Walk, Chatham, between midnight and 1.30am on Sunday, October 5.

The woman, who is in her 30s, was walking through a park there when she was approached by the man.

He grabbed and sexually assaulted her before she managed to break free and he ran away in the direction of King Street, and then back towards Whiffens Avenue.

The man is white, aged between 40 and 50, about 5ft 9in and of stocky build.

He had short untidy hair and a beard, and was wearing a long dark coat with a poppy in the buttonhole.

DC Karen Hearn said: “We are treating this as an isolated incident.

“The victim in this case was understandably very distressed and we would like to hear from anyone who recognises the man in this image.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 01634 792350, quoting crime reference XY/35282/14.

Alternatively, if you would prefer to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Stories you might have missed

Woman trapped after being hit by bus

Slovakian man charged after triple crash tragedy

Inquest opens into death of biker

Police link attacks on women