Police are appealing for information following a serious sexual assault on a 14-year-old girl in Plumstead.

The attack occurred at around 8.30pm on Wednesday (April 2) and officers were called to the scene, near Plumstead High Street, at 10.56pm.

Police believe that people would have been around and seen the suspect, a dark skinned male in his teens or early twenties who was wearing dark clothing.

Supt Martin Mitchell from Plumstead police said: "This is a horrific sexual assault on a 14-year-old girl.

"Such incidents are, thankfully, relatively rare and we are urge anyone with information to come forward."

One resident, who has lived in the area for 13 years, said: "I've never seen so many police in my life since I've been here.

"I felt sick to the stomach last night when I heard what might have happened."

Another resident said: "Round here it's really quiet normally and everybody's really friendly.

"I was completely and utterly shocked when I woke up to see police this morning."

Anyone with information should call the Sapphire Unit 020 8 284 9543.

No arrests have been made.