A MAN who indecently assaulted a 13-year-old girl is being hunted by police.

The youngster was assaulted shortly after 4.30pm on Wednesday as she walked along a path near Hemlington Lake, Hemlington, Middlesbrough.

As the girl was walking at the rear of houses in Carlisle Hill, she was approached from behind by a man who placed his hand over her mouth.

He then pulled her into bushes, where she was indecently assaulted.

The girl struggled and bit the man's hand and managed to break free. She then ran to her aunt's house.

The girl was shocked but otherwise unhurt. Her attacker had dark hair and was wearing a T-shirt.

People who have any information about the attack are asked to call police on (01642) 303126.