Detectives investigating a sexual assault have released an e-fit image of a man they believe can help with their enquiries.

The victim, a woman in her 30s, was walking along an alleyway between Cedar Grove and Birch Grove, Hempstead, when she was approached by a man at about 8.10am on Tuesday.

He grabbed and sexually assaulted her before she managed to break free. The man ran off down the alleyway towards Hempstead Valley Drive and the victim alerted police.

The man was white, around 5ft 7ins tall and with a lean build. He was around 35 to 45 years old and wore a grey hooded top with pockets and light coloured jeans.

Investigating officer, Det Sgt Darryll Paulson of Kent Police, said: “The victim in this case was left extremely distressed and we are appealing to the community to come forward if they recognise the man in this image.

“We believe he may have information that could assist in our investigation and I would ask members of the public to call me.”

A 47-year-old man from Gillingham has been arrested in connection with the incident and has been bailed to October 6 pending further enquiries.

• Contact Det Sgt Darryll Paulson on 01634 792645, quoting crime reference XY/030366/14, or Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.