POLICE have renewed their appeal for witnesses after a woman was sexually assaulted in Laindon.

The victim, who lives locally, was approached from behind by a man near to the junction with Basildon Drive and St Nicholas Lane, before being pushed into nearby bushes and sexually assaulted.

The incident took place at around 1.30am on Saturday, May 16.

Investigating officer, DI Richard Sage, said: "I am appealing for two people who were seen in the area around the time of this incident to come forward as they might have information that can assist this investigation."

The first witness is described as a white man, of medium build, around 6ft 2ins tall, and was wearing a white shirt and dark trousers.

The second witness is a white woman, of medium build, with brown shoulder length hair, who was wearing dark clothes.

Both people were seen at around 1.40am in St Nicholas Lane, with the man walking down the side of James Hornsby School.

A 41-year-old man, from Basildon, was arrested on Saturday, May 16.

He was later released on police bail until Friday, June 19, pending further enquiries.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Dc Ed Massey at the South Sexual Offences Investigation Team on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.