A woman fought off an attacker who tried to tear off her clothes.

The 34-year-old victim had just come out of a phone box in the shopping parade in Roffey, Horsham, when she was attacked at 2.30am on Saturday.

She was walking along the parade towards Goodwin Way when she was seized and dragged to a service area behind nearby shops.

The man tried to get her clothes off but the woman fended him off, pulled herself free and ran away.

Police believe the attacker may have come off worst from the struggle. The woman was not hurt but was left very shaken by the ordeal.

Detective Sergeant Michael Beard said: "This could have been a very serious attack on a lone female had she not managed to fight off her attacker.

"He may be injured and I would urge anyone with information to come forward."

The suspect is described as 5ft 9in, of slim build and with a dark complexion. He was wearing a dark hooded top.

Anyone who can help should contact Detective Constable Linda Stilwell of Horsham CID on 0845 6070999 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.