POLICE are appealing for information following a racially aggravated assault on a 45-year-old woman as she walked along the street.

The incident occurred at the junction of East Street and London Road, Sittingbourne

Sally Smith, police media and communications officer in the Swale area, said: "The woman had just crossed the road when she was approached by three white males who surrounded her.

"The males made racist comments and one of them held her and spat at her. A group of school children approached and asked what was going on. At this point it is believed the three males ran away."

The three thugs are all described as being white and aged between 18 and 19. They were all wearing hooded tops with the hoods up.

PC Andy Bell said: “We are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident, especially the school children who stopped the assault.

"This appears to be an unprovoked assault. It was disgusting behaviour and I am keen to see that these young men are arrested for the offence."

He stressed: “Incidents of this nature in Swale are rare and will not be tolerated. I would like to urge anyone who may be able to help us with this enquiry to contact Sittingbourne police station.”

The incident happened at around 1.30pm on Friday, March 17.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sittingbourne police on 01795 419117 or Kent CrimeStoppers, free and in confidence on 0800 555111.