Winchester police are hunting a sex attacker who tried to rape a teenaged girl as she walked alone late at the weekend.

The 18-year-old's ordeal began as she walked in Station Hill near the city's railway station, between 12.30am and 1.45am on Sunday.

Police say a man aged 30-40 grabbed her arm and forced her to the ground. He pinned her down, told her he was going to rape her and tried to take off her skirt. But nearby voices disturbed him and he fled.

He was white, middle-aged and unshaven, with short brown hair brushed forward and flat on top. He was in a dark "Puffa" jacket and beige combat trousers.

Police want to hear from anyone who recognises this description or who was in the area at the time of the attack. They also want people who may have seen the victim, wearing a black skirt, top and jacket and black knee-length boots, to call them.

* Ring Winchester CID on 0845 045 4545 or the Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111 with information.