POLICE want to speak to this man in connection with a sexual assault.

A 33-year-old woman was on a train from London Liverpool Street to Clacton when she claims she was assaulted by the man.

She had been out with friends in London on Friday December 11, and caught the 10.18pm train home.

Det Con Alan Judd, investigating officer, said: “The victim was seated and reading a newspaper when she realised that someone was stroking her leg.

“The victim tried to move away from the man, who sat opposite to her, but he then started to move his hand up her skirt.

“As the train arrived at Shenfield, at around 10.30pm, the victim got off the train and reported the incident to police.”

Her alleged assailant is described as being of Asian or of mixed race origin, aged between 35 and 45 and of medium build. He had short, dark, curly hair and was wearing smart-casual clothes.

Det Con Judd continued: “This was a very distressing and intimidating experience for the victim, which resulted in her rushing off the train in a state of distress.

"In addition to carrying out local inquiries, we have closely reviewed CCTV cameras and have now isolated an image of a man we wish to speak with in connection with what happened.

“This sort of behaviour is completely unacceptable,” he added, “and I would encourage anyone with any information or who recognises the man in the photograph to get in contact with police.”

Anyone who recognises the man from the description or photograph provided, or who witnessed the incident and has not yet spoken to police, is urged to call the British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference number B07/146074/09, or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.