A WOMAN was sexually assaulted by a man who “grabbed her in a private area”.

Police have been forced to step up patrols in the Broadmayne area of Basildon following the incident near Mopsies Park at roughly 7pm Wednesday.

Investigating officers say the woman was grabbed by a man before managing to flee.

The worrying incident has sparked shock in the community with officers urging anyone with information to come forward.

While David Harrison, chairman of Basildon’s neighbourhoods and public spaces committee has encouraged women to start carrying personal alarms.

He said: “I do hope this is just a one off incident, women should feel safe to walk around our town without this happening.

“If you can, it’s a good idea to carry an alarm with you - the council should have some available and there might be some online too.

“I really hope that if there are any witnesses or anyone has any information they come forward. This man deserves to be caught.

“I’d imagine someone who is capable of doing something like that could have even bragged to their friends about it - if they have and you know anything about what happened, it’s really important you call the police.

“My thoughts are with the lady affected.”

Kerry Smith, deputy leader of Basildon Council, added: “Nothing like this has happened in this area that I know of, so this is quite a shock.

“People should be able to go about their business without being treated like this.

“I hope the victim makes as quick of a recovery as she can.”

A spokesperson from Essex Police, said: “Specialist officers are investigating and enquiries are ongoing.

“It was reported the woman was grabbed by the man in a private area but managed to get away. Officers will be carrying out additional patrols in the area.” Call 101 quoting 42/193303/20.”