Police are keen to find out how a woman who had been assaulted ended up in a river in Colchester.

Officers want to hear from anyone who saw an assault in the East Hill area of the town on Thursday.

They were called to Meander Mews at 8.35pm after receiving reports that the woman had to be pulled out of the river by passers-by.

Investigating officer, Detective Sarah Corrigan, said: “There are conflicting accounts as to how the woman ended up in the water and we are appealing for anyone who saw what happened or who has any information to get in touch.

“It is believed this incident had started earlier on East Hill and the woman had been assaulted prior to her going into the river.”

A 43-year-old man from Clacton has been arrested on suspicion of assault and questioned by police. He is currently on police bail to report back on Wednesday, November 19.

Anyone with information is asked to call DC Corrigan at Colchester CID on 101. Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through the charity’s anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and respondents will not go to court.