Pic: Metropolitan Police

The Metropolitan police have released new CCTV images as part of their investigation into an assault on a young girl in Hackney last week.

The CCTV images show a man walking away from the scene and heading towards Wardle Street/Brooksby’s Walk 20 minutes after the incident. Police would like to speak to him.

They believe the attacker started walking behind the 11-year-old girl while on her way to school. He grabbed her from behind and was unable to free herself from his grip until she bit the attacker’s hand.

The girl described her attacker as a black male, aged around 40 and six feet tall. He is said to have a greying beard and a scratch on his left cheek.

At the time of the incident, he was said to be wearing a navy blue beanie hat, a zipped up hooded top, black trousers and a long jacket.

Paul Ridley, Detective Inspector from Hackney CID, said: “We returned to the scene for the week anniversary on Tuesday morning to trace any potential witnesses who may have been able to help with the investigation.

“We are still appealing for help and information. Did you witness the incident last Tuesday morning or see a girl fleeing from the scene?

“Do you recognise the suspect from the detailed description given, the e-fit produced or the CCTV images? Whilst enquiries are on going, it is vital that we continue to gather information and I would ask anyone who believes they know the identity of the attacker to contact my investigation team. If you are the individual captured on the CCTV then please come forward.

“We are continuing with extra high visibility patrols in the area to reassure the public.”

If you have any information or have witnessed the incident, please call the police on 101 or call Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.