A TEENAGE girl was subjected to a serious sexual assault as she walked through an area of wasteground.

Police last night revealed details of the attack and urged parents to be mindful of the vulnerability of youngsters out late at night.

And they urged anyone with information about the assault, in the early hours of Saturday, to come forward.

Police were called to the girl's aid shortly after 2am after she was attacked in the grounds of the Acklam Iron Steel and Athletic Club, in Park Road South, in Middlesbrough.

The 15-year-old, from the Pallister Park area, had been out with friends in an area known locally as Jellystone Park, which is open ground between Easson Street and Lambton Road.

She had arranged to stay at a friend's house, and at 2am left the group of youths to make her way towards the house.

But she was grabbed from behind as she passed the entrance to the club and pushed into bushes, where she was assaulted.

Detective Sergeant Steve Young said: "I want to hear from anyone in the area at the time of the offence. In particular, anyone who visited the Iron Steel and Athletic Club earlier."

The attacker is described as a white male, in his 30s, of medium build with dark hair and facial stubble. He had a beer belly, spoke with a local accent and was wearing dark trousers and dark footwear.

Detective Inspector Heather Eastwood said: "While this appears to be an isolated attack, I would urge parents to be mindful of the vulnerability of youngsters out late at night."

Anyone with any informationis asked to call Det Sgt Young, on 01642-303126, or Crimestoppers, on 0800-555-111