A MAN grabbed a woman by her hair and tried to drag her across the ground.

It happened on Park End Street at around 3.50am on New Year's Day, and police believe New Year's Eve party-goers might have witnessed it.

The victim left before police officers arrived at the scene, but they have now put out a desperate bid to find her.

Investigating officer PC Patric Hayes, based at St Aldates Police Station, said: "I am specifically appealing for the victim to come forward.

"This incident took place at a busy time of night as many people were out celebrating New Year's Eve, so I believe someone will have witnessed this incident taking place." 

A 19-year-old man from Reading has been arrested on suspicion of assault and has been released under investigation.

Anybody who saw something should call 101 quoting 43200000292.