POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a woman was left ‘badly shaken’ after being followed and nearly grabbed by a man in Shoebury.

The 19-year-old victim was walking by St Mary’s Church, in North Shoebury Road, at about 6.50am on Wednesday, August 31 when a man started to follow her.

He then ran towards her and tried to grab hold of her.

She shouted at him and ran away.

The man is described as white, aged in his late 30s, about 6ft 2in tall, and skinny. He had sandy blond hair tied up in a bun-style.

He was wearing a dark green, three-quarter length trench coat and black sunglasses.

Investigating Officer Pc Ian Newling said: "The victim was able to escape from the male without injury but was left badly shaken.

"I would urge anyone who saw what happened to get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Pc Newling at Southend Police Station on 101.

Alternatively people can also give information to the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via an anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org