Police are renewing appeals for witnesses after a woman was sexually assaulted near Grove.

The 27-year-old woman was walking by herself along the A338 at 3am on Sunday when she was attacked.

A man sexually assaulted her, causing severe bruising to her face.

Detectives carried out house-to-house inquiries in Grove yesterday.

Det Sgt John Pennycook said: “The attack took place in a well known lay-by in Station Road, just past the Oxford Lane turning. During the attack the woman could see the lights of passing cars.

“Were you travelling on this road in the early hours of Sunday? Did you notice a man acting suspiciously or did you see a woman in distress?

“I'm very keen to speak to a man and a woman who stopped just before the attack took place and offered the woman a lift home. We believe this car was a green people carrier.

"Were you these people, or do you know anyone who drives this type of car who could have been in the area at the weekend? These people may have seen something that could assist our investigation and I urge them to come forward.”

Anyone with information should call police on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.