The woman, who is in her 20s, was attacked at around 8.45am on January 3 as she walked along a pathway near Bramble Road in Witham.

Detectives investigating an attempted rape of a woman in Witham are appealing for a key witness to come forward.

She managed to fight off the man and got away.

Detectives are still trying to trace a man, wearing a red hoody or beanie hat, who could be a key witnesses and could help with the investigation.

The man was captured at 8.53am walking from Bramble Road towards the footpath in the direction of the scene of the attack.

At 8.57am the same man is seen walking along Powers Hall End in the direction of the roundabout with Flora Road.

A woman with a pushchair who detectives were previously trying to trace has now come forward.

Police are keen to hear from anyone who was using the pathway near to Bramble Road between 8.45am and 9.15am on January 3.

The would also like to speak to any witnesses or anyone who was driving in the area of Bluebell Close, Bramble Road, Harebell Drive, Campion Way and Powers Hall End at the time.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Al Pitcher of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate said: “I am very keen to speak to the man captured on dash-cam in the area at the time of this incident.

“He is wearing what looks like a red hoody or red beanie hat. I’m keen to point out that he is not a suspect but he could be a vital witness to our investigation.

“We would also like to hear from anyone who recognises the suspect as shown in the e-fit. If you think you know him please contact us. We have forensic evidence that means we can quickly eliminate people from our enquiries.”

The suspect who attacked the woman is described as white, just under 6ft tall and of a large build.

He is said to have dark bushy eyebrows, green eyes and short shaved dark hair.

He was seen wearng a black puffed jacket with a hood and bright blue denim jeans. He was carrying a grey and black backpack and is believed to have spoken with a foreign accent.

If you are the man in the red hoody/ beanie hat or recognise him or have any information about the suspect or incident then please contact the Stanway Major Investigation Team on 101 or email scd.appeals.essex@essex.pnn.police.uk