A 12-year-old girl was grabbed by three men in Lowestoft as she walked on a footpath and suffered scratches to her face, arms and wrist from a piece of broken glass.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the assault, which took place on Thursday, January 25, on a footpath between St Margaret’s Road and Church Road.

The young victim was approached by three males wearing black hooded tops and described as very drunk, who then proceeded to grab her.

They then used a broken piece of glass to cause scratches to her face, arms and wrist that caused superficial cuts.

The girl managed to free herself while the males staggered away.

Condemning the incident, Waveney MP Peter Aldous urged people in Lowestoft to come forward with any information about the assault.

Mr Aldous said: “My thoughts are very much with the young girl, who was subjected to this attack in the most horrific circumstances. I am absolutely horrified that this has taken place, and in broad daylight as well.

“My thoughts are with her, and her family, at this awful time.

“I would urge anyone who witnessed this horrific attack, or if you have any suspicions or thoughts about who might be involved, to come forward and contact police as quickly as possible.”

Residents have reacted to the attack with similar anger. One said: “A child is not safe walking, probably to school, at 9am in the morning – disgusting.”

Another added: “This is terrible, poor girl.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident, saw any suspicious activity around the time stated, or has knowledge of it should contact Lowestoft police on 101, quoting crime reference 37/4698/18.