A COUNCILLOR has reassured residents that Prettygate is a safe place to live despite reports of a sexual assault.

The police are still exploring their lines of inquiry after a woman in her twenties was sexually assaulted in an alleyway in Cotman Road, Colchester, during the early hours of Sunday morning.

Essex Police says its prime suspect has been described as a white man aged between 18 and 25, of medium to stocky build, clean shaven and with shoulder-length mousey brown hair.

The force has urged residents in the Prettygate area to remain vigilant when going about their daily business.

Gazette: Scene - the alleyway where the incident is suspected to have taken placeScene - the alleyway where the incident is suspected to have taken place (Image: Google)

Sue Lissimore, who has lived in the ward for 32 years, reiterated the need for extra care but stressed she believes the area, in general, is safe.

“Prettygate is an incredibly safe place to live and work. It’s a very sad incident and, of course, I was very shocked to hear about what had allegedly happened,” said the councillor.

READ MORE >> Police continue manhunt as forensic teams probe 'sexual assault'

“When you look at the crime figures, this area is one of the safest places to live in the Colchester borough.

“All residents’ thoughts will be going out to everyone involved. People are very concerned about what was happening.”

Forensic investigators were at the scene throughout Sunday and a cordon was put in place on the green on neighbouring Van Dyck Road.

Gazette: Reassurance - Sue LissimoreReassurance - Sue Lissimore (Image: Newsquest)

The reported incident took has left the community reeling as police officers continue their probes to determine what happened at about 4am.

Essex Police stated the man they are hunting was wearing a dark green long-sleeved top, green camouflage trousers and white trainers at the time.

The complainant is being supported by specialist officers and staff while inquiries continue.

A spokesman for the force said: “We need anyone who was in the area and saw anything or has any CCTV, dash cam or doorbell footage to contact us.

“We’re advising people in the area to be vigilant but to continue going about their daily business.

“If you have any information please contact us quoting the crime reference number 42/230156/22.”

Anyone with information should call the police on 101 or submit an anonymous report via Crimestoppers.