A TEENAGE girl was the victim of a serious sexual assault in an Oxford park.

The 15-year-old was attacked in South Park on Friday, by a man who tried to kiss her, then sexually assaulted her.

Oxford police spokesman Kate Smith said the girl was not injured but was extremely distressed by the attack.

The attacker struck between 9pm and 9.30pm, about 100 yards into the Warneford Lane end of the park.

Miss Smith said: "This was not a rape, but it could have turned into a rape had the man not been disturbed."

The attacker, who was in his early 40s, around 5ft 10in tall, clean shaven and wearing a black waterproof jacket, ran off down Warneford Lane.

She said: "It was reported to us by a third party, the girl didn't report it herself and we have only just interviewed the victim."

Det Sgt Simon Steel, of Oxford CID, said: "We think the man ran off because he heard or saw someone else in the park.

"If you were in South Park at this time and saw anything suspicious then please contact me.

"The girl was not injured but this was a very distressing incident and we are taking it very seriously."

Anyone with information can contact Det Sgt Steel on 08458 505 505, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.