POLICE have released an e-fit of a man they would like to trace after a woman was assaulted in Darlington.

The woman was walking on Eastbourne Road, near the Lawns Care home, on the evening of Thursday, March 5 when she was approached by a man, who became verbally abusive before assaulting her.

The incident, which has been previously reported by The Northern Echo, happened between 6.30pm and 7pm and was over quickly.

Afterwards the woman walked off at speed towards Milton Street and the man may have walked off in the opposite direction.

He is described as being white, around 30-years-old, and of medium build. He has short brown hair with a swept over fringe, chiselled facial features and what is described as a large nose with a pronounced bone in its bridge area.

He also has an earring in his right ear and spoke with a local accent.

He was wearing a black top with dark bottoms at the time of the incident.

Anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious can call Detective Constable John Tyers on 101 or call 01325-742771.