An alleged sexual assault on a teenager in Colchester is being investigated by police.

The teenage girl has told officers she was attacked by a man in his 30s in Lexden Road at around 1am today.

In a statement, an Essex Police spokesman said: “Police are investigating a sexual assault which took place in Lexden Road in Colchester.

“It happened just before 1am on Tuesday, December 23. The victim, a teenage girl from the local area, was approached by a white man in his 30s and sexually assaulted.

“The man was around 5 ft 6 ins tall with a local accent and was seen wearing dark clothing and a hat. He ran off in the direction of Stanway. The victim is being cared for by specially trained police officers.

“Enquiries are continuing to trace the suspect.

“A scene guard is in place at Lexden Road, behind the Lexden Crown public house while forensic recovery of potential evidence continues.

“Anybody with any information about the incident is asked to contact Essex Police on 101.”