Surrey Police is appealing for witnesses after a woman out running with her dog was assaulted in Dorking yesterday evening (3 July).

The woman was in Ranmore Common around 7.10pm when a man grabbed her from behind, pushed her into the woods and punched her in the face. He then touched her inappropriately but she managed to fight him off before grabbing her dog and running home.

The woman was treated in hospital after suffering injuries to her hand and ankle as a result of the incident.

The man is described as white, in his mid 20S, 6ft tall, of a stocky build with short black hair and was wearing black trousers and a green jacket with the hood up. He was on a black mountain bike and smelt strongly of alcohol.

Detective Sergeant Leigh Wall, who is investigating the incident, said: “Luckily the victim was able to push her assailant away, otherwise this incident could have been more serious. She has received treatment for her injuries, which are not believed to be serious, but has understandably been left extremely shaken and distressed by her ordeal.

“We are appealing to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area at the time, particularly other dog walkers or runners who might have noticed this man hanging around, or anyone with any other information, to come forward straightaway.”

DS Wall added: “We would like to reassure the local community that we are carrying out a number of enquiries to identify the suspect and that we have stepped up patrols in the area to provide reassurance.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Surrey Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 45170071239 or you can use the online reporting system found at https://report.police.uk and enter the reference number in the ‘Additional information’ section. Alternatively the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.