A TEENAGE girl who was taking a short cut to her mum's house was subjected to a terrifying indecent assault in Sydenham.

The 19-year-old was walking along a grass bank near the canal, behind the Sainsburys Savacentre, in Bell Green, at 2pm on November 6, when a man grabbed her from behind and dragged down the bank.

And as she screamed to get help, he indecently assaulted her before running off.

The direction he went in is unknown.

Investigating officer DC 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."

He is white, aged around 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 15, 2001 12:01