A STUDENT was pounced on by a sex attacker as she walked in the grounds of her university.

Annie Davidson

A STUDENT was pounced on by a sex attacker as she walked in the grounds of her university.

The 22-year-old was in woodland next to Essex University when she was grabbed from behind by a man who tried to rape her.

Police said the attack happened just off Boundary Road between Tesco and the north campus on a pathway.

The assailant struck at around 11pm on Thursday and afterwards ran away towards the Greenstead estate.

The victim was physically uninjured by her ordeal and is recovering at home.

Police said the attacker was white, aged in his mid twenties, around 5ft 10ins tall, muscular build, and with a shaved head.

He was wearing a grey tracksuit top with red sleeves, grey tracksuit bottoms and white trainers.

Investigating officer, Det Sgt Mark Merry, said: “Although this form of assault is extremely rare and isolated on the university campus, we would like to remind students, especially women, to ensure they walk in pairs or groups in the evenings.

“We are appealing for information and witnesses to the attack to come forward.

“There were two organised events at the university on the night and so someone from these parties may recognise this attacker from the description provided.

“We appreciate that many students would have returned to their respective homes outside Essex for the Christmas break, but any who still reside in the county could help us identify this man.

“Indeed, residents on the Greenstead estate may recognise him from the description.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact detectives at Colchester police station on 0300 333 4444.

annie.davidson@eadt.co.uk