DETECTIVES were today trying to unravel the riddle of a frightening attack on a young woman in a quiet Suffolk village.

Tom Potter

DETECTIVES were today trying to unravel the riddle of a frightening attack on a young woman in a quiet Suffolk village.

Police launched a major investigation after the 21-year-old victim was pushed into a secluded car park in Little Stonham and held against a wall.

She had been walking along a stretch of the A140 at around 10.50pm last night when the ordeal began.

A man shoved her into the Baptist Chapel car park - but fortunately, she was able to fight off her attacker before he could assault her.

It is understood detectives are probing the possibility there was a sexual element to the attack.

However, a force spokesman said: “It is too early to determine the nature of the incident.

“We would appeal for witnesses to contact us to assist with our enquiries.”

The man was today described as white, of stocky build, 5ft 8ins, with dark hair and was wearing dark clothing. He fled from the scene on foot.

The woman reported the incident to police immediately, who quickly cordoned off the empty gravel car park and scoured the area for clues.

One police car was expected to remain at the scene for much of today.

Specialist officers were today set to interview the victim in a bid to gather the full details of the assault.

Jan Hardcastle, who lives in Long Cottage which overlooks the Baptist Chapel, today told of her shock.

“The police came round to make some initial enquiries to see if anyone heard or saw anything. I was awake but I didn't see or hear anything.

“The village is so sleepy that I think most people were in bed at the time. Obviously it's a shock to hear what happened.”

The chapel is on the busy A140, less than 200 yards away from the Magpie pub.

Police urged anyone with information on the attack to call detective inspector David Rutterford at Stowmarket CID on 01473 613500.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.