POLICE appeal for witnesses after a teenage girl was assaulted in a busy area close to a main road.

It was reported a teenager girl was assaulted close to Oakwood Pond shortly before 4.20pm yesterday.

The incident happened in a busy area of Harlow, close to a cycle track and a main road.

Police have described the suspect as a skinny black man, aged in his early 20s, and around 5ft 10ins tall.

READ MORE >> 12-year-old girl allegedly dragged by her hair in assault at a Southend park

He had black afro hair, some facial hair and was wearing a dark baseball cap and dark shorts.

It is believed the suspect left the area in the direction of Canons Brook.

Essex Police are appealing for witnesses to get in touch.

Detective Inspector Daniela Hogan said: “My officers remain in the Oakwood Pond area yesterday evening, and overnight; you can also expect to see an increased police presence in the area this morning.

“This assault happened in a busy area, close to a cycle track and a main road in Harlow.

“I need anyone who saw a teenage girl in distress or a man matching the description in this area this afternoon to get in touch with my team.

“I appreciate an incident of this nature will cause concern among the community in Harlow, but we have a team of specialist detectives working through the night to progress this fast-paced investigation.”