POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a woman was assaulted in Grays.

At about 12.35pm on Monday, January 19, an 18-year-old local woman was walking along an alleyway known locally as church path. It runs between Wharf Road and Grays train station.

She was approached by a black man who entered from Bruces Wharf Road who tried to engage her in conversation and grabbed her hand. He also grabbed her bottom and kissed her hand.

She then broke his grip and walked off quickly.

The man is described as wearing dark clothing and a black hip-length jacket. He was aged in his late 20s to early 30s and had shaved black hair.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt Scott Fitzmaurice at Grays police station on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.