A YOUNG woman was indecently assaulted as she took a short-cut to her mum's house .

The 19-year-old was walking along Pool River, behind the Sainsbury's Savacentre, in Bell Green, Sydenham, at 2pm on Tuesday, November 6, when a man grabbed her from behind and dragged her down the bank.

As she screamed for help he indecently assaulted her before running off but the direction he went in is unknown.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Bernie Galopin said: "This young woman has suffered a terrifying ordeal and I would urge all members of the public to remain vigilant in the area where this attack took place.

"If you know anyone matching the description please come forward to help with the investigation." The attacker was white, aged 55, 5ft 10in, of medium build with grey hair swept back in a teddy-boy style.

He was wearing a multi-coloured jumper, red at the top and green at the bottom, and black trousers.

Anyone with information should call Lewisham CID on 020 8284 8335 or anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.

November 16, 2001 10:19