At least five drivers failed to stop and help a young woman who was being sexually assaulted on a road in Teesside, police have revealed.

The 20-year-old was attacked as she walked alone along Riverside Road in Stockton around 1am on February 10.

She was badly beaten, had her clothes ripped off and was pinned to the ground during the attack.

However, Detective Sergeant Mick Todd from Cleveland Police, said that several cars, particularly taxis, drove past as the woman was being attacked.

He said: "It took place in the middle of the road, but not a single person stopped. There at least five cars that passed her as she was lying on the road while the attack was taking place. We need those drivers to come forward."

The woman managed to fight off her attacker and ran to the car park at the rear of the Blue Lounge pub, where a woman helped her. The victim suffered severe bruising and swelling to her face, as a result of being punched repeatedly, and was taken to North Tees General Hospital for treatment.

Police said that the woman was now recovering with her family.

The attacker is described as a young athletic man of medium build. He was wearing a plain white hooded top with the hood covering his face and left the scene on a BMX-type light-framed bike. Police also said that the suspect could have suffered hand or facial injuries.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on: 01642 302210 or Crimestoppers anonymously on: 0800 555 111.

(KMcA)