Essex Police has launched an appeal for witnesses to an assault that took place on Park Road in Maldon on Sunday, 18 July.

It was reported that the teenage victim was walking in Park Road at around 5.15pm when she was approached by three men.

After a brief verbal exchange, one of the men assaulted the victim, punching her to the head.

She sustained facial bruising.

The suspect is described as a tanned man with a stubbly, dark beard, who looked to be around 19-years-old. He had mid-length, shaggy brown hair, was around 5ft 9ins tall and of stocky build. He was wearing dark blue jeans and a white thin tracksuit jacket.

One of the other men was described as white, with short brown hair. He was about 5ft 6ins tall, of skinny build with slightly muscular arms and looked about 19-years-old. He was wearing a black cap with a New York Yankee logo.

A third man left prior to the assault.

Anyone who witnessed the assault or has any information can call Essex Police on 101 and quote reference 42/142141/21.

You can submit a report online using the link here or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am and 11pm.

Alternatively, information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.