A WOMAN who was assaulted by a gang of teenage girls in broad daylight says she has been left terrified to go out on her own.

Donna Walker was walking her 15-month-old Staffy Peaches through an alleyway between Eastwood Drive and Tesco Highwoods in Colchester at about 6.30pm on Tuesday.

After a verbal altercation between Donna and the group, she was attacked by the teens, believed to be between the ages of 14 and 17.

Donna, 49, said: “There was a huge group of teenagers, probably about 14 boy and girls, who were taking up the whole alley whilst I was trying to get past.

“Someone made a comment to me. I don’t know exactly what they said but I said something rude back as I was walking by.

“I should not have said anything and I feel really awful about it now.

“Then a girl came charging up behind me and said: ‘We are going to have a talk’.

“She punched me in the chest and in the face. I released my dog and I hit back.

“Then all of her friends came over and the boys grabbed Peaches and pinned her down.

“I got into the foetal position whilst they were punching and kicking me. I could not say how long it went on for but it felt like forever.”

Gazette:

After one of the teenagers screamed at the attackers to stop, the group left the scene and Donna was helped by some passing dogwalkers.

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She was taken to hospital with bad bruising to her face and body, visiting the GP the next day.

She was prescribed strong medication for the pain, which she said has been excruciating.

“I should not have said what I said but I did not deserve this,” Donna said.

“Every time I see a group of teenagers I am terrified. I don’t feel safe walking my dog on my own or doing my shopping.

“I am very noticeable and can’t hide. I have bright coloured hair as that is who I am. I shouldn’t have to change that.”

Gazette:

Donna said Peaches had been left traumatised by the incident and had not left her side since the attack.

She posted an appeal on Facebook after the assault, which has been shared more than 1,500 times.

She said: “The amount of support I have had has been incredible and I want to thank everyone who has messaged me.”

Essex Police are investigating.

Witnesses should contact 101 quoting reference number 42/178533/21 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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