POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a teenage girl was attacked by a man in a balaclava.

The youngster, who is from Poole, was walking her dog outside a campsite at Sutton Holms near Verwood at around 7.40pm on Friday when she was approached by a man and pushed to the ground.

The girl managed to push him away, and he then ran off.

She sustained minor grazes in the incident.

The man is described as white, about six feet tall, and he was wearing dark clothing and a balaclava to conceal his face.

Detective Inspector Steve Thorpe, of Bournemouth and Poole CID, said: “The offender did not say anything to the victim and the motive of the attack is unclear.

“The victim was understandably upset and shaken by the incident.

“I would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or has seen somebody fitting the description in the area at the time.

“Anyone with information that may assist my investigation should contact Dorset Police.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 20:472. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.