A teenage girl was sexually assaulted in an alleyway in broad daylight this afternoon.

An attacker in his mid 30s grabbed the teenager’s clothes as she passed him in the alleyway between Wells Road and Bramble Walk in Epsom.

The victim managed to break free and ran off after the assault between 3.25 and 3.30pm.

The Asian man was described as having short black hair, stubble or a beard and a black or navy jacket. It is believed he was on foot.

A forensics team is examining the scene and officers are carrying out house-to-house enquiries nearby.

Temporary Detective Inspector Sailesh Limbachia said: "This offence took place in broad daylight and has left the victim extremely shaken.

"I am appealing for anyone who was in the area this afternoon and may have seen either a man matching the description or any suspicious activity to come forward.

"I would like to reassure the local community that we are doing everything we can to catch whoever was responsible for this crime.

"This incident will no doubt cause concern in the local community and we are working closely with residents through the local Safer Neighbourhood Team who will be providing reassurance patrols and visits in the area.

"I would urge anyone who has information which may assist with our investigation to contact Surrey Police immediately."

Anyone who can assist detectives with their investigation is asked to contact Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference P14204524.

The independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.