Woman sexually assaulted while out on morning run

An investigation has been launched after a woman was pulled to the ground and sexually assaulted while she was "simply out for a morning run".

Suffolk Police says the victim, in her 30s, was running along a path off Iliffe Way, Stowmarket, between 05:45 and 06:00 GMT on Wednesday.

She was approached by an unknown man, described as white and about 5ft 10in, who attacked her.

"This was an extremely distressing incident for the woman who was simply out for a morning run when she was attacked," said Det Insp Stuart Dolan-Allen.

"We understand this may concern the local community, and we want to assure the public that we are investigating all lines of inquiry to identify the man responsible."

The man was wearing a dark woolly beanie hat, a thick, dark rain jacket and dark trousers, and he was said to have smelt strongly of cigarettes and cannabis.

Det Insp Dolan-Allen said the public could expect to see an increased police presence in the area.

"We know there were dog walkers, commuters and other runners out in the area in and around the time of the incident who may have seen something suspicious, and we appeal to them to come forward," he said.