Woman's Face Gouged In Terrifying Attack

Detectives are searching for a female attacker who left a young woman covered in blood after gouging her face while four men kicked her on the ground.

The victim, who agreed for police to release an image of her horrific injuries, was attacked from behind and pulled over by her hair by the woman who led the assault.

The 22-year-old, who asked to be named only as Leanne, was robbed of her bag containing £62 in cash, a gold chain, store cards and documents as she walked across Southchurch Hall Park, near Woodgrange Drive, in Southend at 12.30pm on Tuesday.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Rory Scarlett said: "This was an absolutely terrifying attack on a woman who was left severely distressed and covered in blood.

"We want to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or from anyone who saw the attackers lurking in the park before the incident or running away afterwards."

The female attacker was thought to be in her early 20s and about 5ft 1in.

She was believed to be tanned or of mixed race and her dark hair was in a ponytail.

Three of the men were black and all thought to be in their early 30s.

One wore a red hooded top and the others had black hoodies.

The fourth man was white, also in his 20s and of skinny build. He was wearing a black jumper.

Anyone with information can anonymously contact Crimestoppers online or call on 0800 555111.