A TEENAGER was attacked as she walked along a path in Hampshire woodland.

The 15-year-old was alone on a woodland track at Dibden Purlieu near Hythe when she was apparently grabbed by a man who is then thought to have indecently assaulted her.

The youngster, who is from the area, managed to break free and raise the alarm after the attack that happened at about 6pm yesterday.

She was left with minor injures as a result of the struggle and was last night with specialist officers. She was described as being extremely traumatised by the ordeal.

Initial reports suggested she the attack was of an "indecent nature" said a Hampshire police spokesman.

A section of woodland around the path at Kensington Fields was sealed off for forensic examination.

Detectives leading the inquiry have appealed for anyone who was in the area at the time of the attack to come forward.

Officers are also keen to hear from anyone who may have seen a suspicious looking man loitering in the area at any time yesterday over the past few days.

Anyone who may be able to help with the inquiry is urged to contact Hythe CID on 0845 045 4545 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.