POLICE have appealed for witnesses after a teenage girl was sexually assaulted.

The incident happened in a park on Grindon Lane, Sunderland, between 10pm and 10.35pm on Friday (September 17) A police spokesman said the victim was walking alone through the park to a bus stop after becoming separated from her friend.

She was approached by the offender who sexually assaulted her.

Acting Detective Chief Inspector Dave Willett said: "People can be reassured that we are doing everything we can to trace the person responsible for this attack.

"We are making extensive enquiries in this area and would ask for the public's help.

"I would urge anyone with any information to contact us as soon as possible."

The suspect was wearing grey bottoms and a black top.

Anyone who witnessed the assault or who was in the area at the time is asked to contact police on 03456- 043-043 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.