A WOMAN was left with scratches and bruises after a man tried to rape her.

The 22-year-old victim was walking home when she was grabbed by a man and thrown to the ground.

Another person, known only as Ellie, came to help the woman and the attacker ran off.

Sussex Police are appealing for anyone with information about the incident, which happened in Ockley Road, Bognor, to come forward.

The victim was left extremely distressed and with scratches and bruises to her wrists, arms and knees.

The offender is believed to have been a white man who ran off in the direction of Linden Road.

Detectives particularly want to speak to Ellie, who had copper-coloured hair worn with a fringe.

They would also like to speak to taxi drivers with dash cams or anyone with CCTV footage that may show what happened or may have captured suspicious activity in the High Street, Canada Road and Ockley Road area of the town.

The incident happened at about 11.30pm on Wednesday.

Detective Sergeant Emma Dumbrell, said: “We believe this to have been an isolated, opportunist attack which was nevertheless extremely frightening for the victim.

“Extra patrols and house-to-house enquiries are being carried out in the area with the aim of detaining the man responsible as soon as possible.

“To that end, any information about this incident is vital and I would urge any witnesses to come forward without delay.”

Anyone able to assist detectives is asked to report details online or phone 101, quoting serial 256 of 17/08.

Alternatively they can visit the Crimestoppers website or contact the independent charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.