A WOMAN has been sexually assaulted while walking her dog.

The victim was left "traumatised but not injured" by the attack that happened in fields next to Pickersleigh Road, Malvern, between 11.45am and 12.30pm yesterday.

The offender - described as a white man, in his 20s, between 5' 6" and 5' 9", with short, dark, spiked hair and a sun tan - spoke to the woman and asked for directions before the attack.

Officers believe people will have seen the man walking in the area - in and around Hayslan Road and Harbinger Avenue - rather than witnessing the actual offence.

"Workmen, who did not see or hear anything of the attack, were cutting the grass in the area, so this should help to pinpoint the relevant time period in the minds of those who were around at the time," said a police spokesman.

"While offences of this kind are very rare in Malvern, we are keen to identify and apprehend this man as quickly as possible."

He added that the man wore a white vest, white three-quarter-length linen-type trousers and a chain necklace, spoke with a 'slangy English' accent and had local knowledge.

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 08457 444888, quoting 318S/130508.

Information can also be given - anonymously - to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.