Police investigating an assault on a 14-year-old girl in Rickmansworth have released an E-fit image of a man they would like to identify.

The man, who had fresh scratches on his face that were not sustained during the incident, touched her on the arm and neck before being disturbed by a passing motorist and making off.

It occurred just before 5pm on Thursday, March 28 in Stockers Farm Road, close to the aquadrome.

Detective Constable Nicky Stewart, from the Three Rivers Local Crime Unit, said the girl was uninjured during the incident but was “understandably shaken up by what happened”.

Det Const Stewart added: “Following the incident proactive policing patrols were increased in the local area to provide reassurance and ensure the safety of the public. To date, there have been no similar reports.

“Since the incident occurred we have been carrying out enquiries to trace the suspect and establish his motives. We are now in a position to release an E-fit image of a man we would like to identify as part of this ongoing work.

"If you think you may know his identity, or have any other information which could assist our investigation, please get in touch.

“We are also still keen to trace the passing motorist, who was possibly driving a dark blue hatchback.”

Anyone with information should contact Det Const Stewart via email at nicola.stewart@herts.pnn.police.uk or call the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime number 41/28635/19.

Information can also be reported online at www.herts.police.uk/Report or through crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Their untraceable online form can also be used at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.