A knifepoint sex attack on a middle-aged black man in Wadhurst may have been racially motivated, police said today.

The victim was stopped by a motorist asking for directions before his male passenger got out asking for a light.

Police said the man was attacked by the passenger and threatened with a knife in what they described as a "rare and isolated" incident at 4.45pm last Friday.

His attacker, who was white and aged between 18 and 25, was described as having grubby hands and prominent veins on his arms.

Detectives suspect the victim may have been followed by the car, a small, dark blue two-door hatchback, before the attack in The Marlpit.

House-to-house inquiries will be conducted and information boards will be put up as police appeal for information to trace the men.

Detective Inspector Rob Morland, of Sussex Police, said: "Officers are offering continued support to the victim and his family during this difficult time.

"We are conducting a meticulous investigation into this serious offence and are working closely with neighbourhood officers to gather information.

"We ask the local people of Wadhurst for their support while we investigate this rare and isolated incident."

He added: "This incident is not being treated as racially motivated at this time. We remain open-minded to the possibility it may be racially motivated, but this may change if new information is received."

The attacker is described as being closely shaven, with gelled spiky blond/brown hair, drooping eyes, thin lips, an angular nose and was wearing a yellow hoodie and grey tracksuit bottoms.

The male driver is described as white, aged 40 to 50, with black swept-back hair, a chubby round face, stubble, and was wearing a dark short-sleeved T-shirt.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police on 0845 6070 999, quoting Operation Leeming, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.