A woman sustained a head injury in an attempt to escape the grip of a man who had grabbed her by the throat.

The incident occurred at the rear of a property on Cramphorn Walk between 11pm and 11.20pm on, February 17.

Police are appealing for witnesses.

During the struggle, it is believed that the woman hit her head on the wall, which left her with a cut to the back of the head.

The victim managed to bite her attacker’s finger, and he fled the scene in the direction of Wheatfield Way.

The suspect is described as a white man of medium build. He is between 5ft 5ins and 5ft 6ins tall and has black, straight short hair.

He wore a medium length black jacket and dirty-looking white jeans.

Sergeant Matt Dalby said: “A full investigation is being carried out into this incident. We would like to hear from anyone we have not spoken to already, or who may have new information, to come forward.

“Attacks like this are uncommon, but can have a serious impact on the victim, their daily routines and their personal feelings of safety. We have ensured the victim’s welfare since receiving this report.

“It is believed that this is an isolated incident and increased patrols have been conducted in the area and will continue to take place. If you have any information, please call 101 and ask for a member of the Local Policing Team at Chelmsford police station.”

Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org.