A terrified woman fought off a motorist who tried to drag her into his car, police said today.
The 31-year-old was walking along Guernsey Gardens, Wickford, on Monday afternoon when a man in an old Ford Fiesta stopped the car and asked her for directions.
The driver, who had a map in his lap and was allegedly looking for Park Drive, then asked her to get in.
When she refused he grabbed her wrist and dragged her to the car.
Managing to struggle free, the terrified woman fled to a nearby school before calling police.
Det Con Dominic Graham, from Basildon CID, said: "He held her very tightly and she had to fight to get free."
The woman, who lives in Wickford, believes the man was a manual worker because of his dirty hands and his clothes.
He was wearing a grubby long-sleeved denim jacket, blue jeans and old grey T-shirt underneath.
He is described as being in his mid-twenties with a tanned complexion and mousy brown hair.
Witnesses should call Basildon police on 01268 532212.
Published Thursday July 1, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article