A student who had paint sprayed in her face by a would-be robber as he grappled for her bag has spoken of her fear at the attack - the third since she moved to the town four months ago.

First year psychology student Verena Balli was attacked in Avon Way, Greenstead, after she returned from Tesco about 11.10pm on Thursday.

She said: "I heard somebody behind me who was running and he stood directly in front of me and asked me if I knew what the time was.

"I said 'no' and heard him after me again. He pushed me. I had to fight because he was trying to get my bag."

Her attacker sprayed silver paint in her face, as she fought back, when he tried to grab her bag which was slung across her shoulder.

But Miss Balli, who comes from Germany, used self-defence techniques. Eventually, her attacker ran off empty-handed and Miss Balli ran towards a taxi. The driver offered to take her home.

The 21-year-old Essex University student previously had a pot of hot coffee thrown at her as she was walking down Avon Way in December, and when she first arrived in Colchester, in October, she said a man tried to touch her and scared her.

Her attacker is described as aged about 30, with stubble and short dark hair. He was about 5ft 9ins.

Any witnesses are asked to contact Colchester police on 01206 762212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Published Tuesday January 15, 2002