Woman sexually attacked in wood

A WOMAN out walking her dog has been subjected to a serious sex assault in woods in Leeds.

West Yorkshire Police yesterday appealed for any witnesses to come forward.

The assault on Sunday night took place in a wooded area near Bullerthorpe Lane in the Colton area of Leeds.

Officers said a 36-year-old local woman was walking her dog when she was attacked from behind by a man at about 8.13pm.

Officers described him as a dark European male, about 5ft 11in and of average build.

He was wearing long black cotton trousers and a black sweater with no hood and spoke with a foreign accent.

Yesterday an area near a footpath leading from the Avenue towards Colton was cordoned off while a forensic examination of the scene took place.

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said yesterday that inquiries were under way and the victim was being supported by specially-trained officers.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Richard Smith at West Yorkshire Police’s homicide and major enquiry team by calling 0845 606 0606.