DETECTIVES hunting the youth who attacked a ten-month-old baby have issued an e-fit picture of the suspect.

Sarah Ali was left battered and bruised by a teenager who tried to snatch her from her pushchair in Borough Road, Middlesbrough, on Wednesday night.

Yasmin Ali was approached by a youth, who appeared to be drunk or under the influence of drugs, and tried to snatch Sarah before punching her in the stomach and face.

The attack has shocked police in Middlesbrough.

Detective Constable Sonja Whittingham said: "The public need to act as our eyes and ears to trace the person responsible for this disturbing act.

"Anyone who recognises this male or has any information should come forward."

Investigators said they have received a number of calls following the appeal and an eye-witness gave a statement yesterday.

Sarah was taken to James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, for checks and suffered redness to one of her eyes.

The youth was white, aged 14 to 16, 5ft 7in to 5ft 8in, and of scruffy appearance.

He was wearing a light grey tracksuit with three white stripes on the arms and legs and scruffy trainers.

Mrs Ali, 28, said: "We have been inundated with call from well-wishers and family members. This has been a very stressful time and we just want this person caught.

"I am now too frightened to take Sarah out on my own."

Her husband, Zafran, 28, has lived in Borough Road all of his life without experiencing any problems.

He said: "I can't believe this has happened in Middlesbrough, I have lived here for years and never had any trouble from anyone until now.

"A neighbour saw the attack and realised something was wrong and shouted at the youth. That must have alarmed him and he ran off.

"The lad has been seen around here before so hopefully he will get picked up by the police sooner rather than later."

The eyewitness, who did not want to be named, said: "He ran off down the street and was gone in a flash. There was no time to chase him."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Sonja Whittingham, of Middlesbrough CID, on (01642) 303126 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.