A MAN who attacked a young woman in a residential street in daylight is being hunted by the police.

The victim, a 24-year-old woman who was out walking her dog, called officers to Kimmeridge Close in Nythe at about 11.40am last Wednesday.

She was said to have been left very shaken by the assault, in which she suffered a cut to the stomach and reddening to the neck and face.

Police last night refused to be drawn on how she sustained these injuries but said they were not serious and she did not require hospital treatment.

The victim described her attacker as white, about 5ft 7ins, of slim build, and in his mid to late 40s.

He has very bushy dark brown eyebrows, a long nose with a distinctive lump on the bridge and dark brown eyes.

He is said to have stained teeth and appears to be clean shaven. He was wearing a black woolly hat and a black shiny jacket.

Detectives in Swindon are appealing for help from anyone who may have seen the attack and have released an e-fit picture they hope members of the public will recognise.

Det Con James Newbery, who is leading the investigation, said: “The attack has caused the victim some distress and she has been left very shaken.

“I cannot go into detail about the nature of the injuries but to say they are not serious – it was a scratch more than a cut.

“The victim was out walking her dog alone when she was approached.

“She then called us herself to report the incident.

“Her description of the culprit is quite distinctive and I am hoping the public will be able to recognise him, as I believe he is local to Swindon.”

Det Con Megan Kenzie said: “This attack happened late morning in broad daylight. The victim describes shouting out at the top of her voice so we are appealing for any witnesses who may have seen this attack or who think they can identify the man involved.”

Anyone with information about the incident or recognises the man in question is asked to contact Det Con Newbery at Swindon CID on 101 extension 760 627.