POLICE have launched a fresh appeal for witnesses following a sex attack at Longniddry Bents earlier this month.

A 59-year-old woman was grabbed from behind as she walked along the path between car park No.1 and car park No.2 in broad daylight.

Her attacker fled when she screamed for help.

Police said the incident, which happened on Tuesday, June 19, at around 4.25pm, had been "extremely distressing" for the woman involved.

They have issued more details about the attacker who is described as white, in his fifties, around 5ft 9ins tall, of heavy build with dark grey hair with lighter coloured hair coming through.

He had a tanned complexion and round unshaven face. He was wearing a white polo-shirt with light-coloured horizontal stripes and a white collar, loose grey jogging bottoms and trainers.

It is believed the man was seen leaning against the bonnet of a white SUV similar to a Range Rover which looked new and was parked in No.2 car park at the time.

Constable Steven Neill from Dalkeith Police Station said: "While the victim has not been injured, this attack has left her extremely distressed and we are eager to hear from anyone who can help us trace the suspect.

"If you were in the area of the car parks at Longniddry Bents just over a week ago - Tuesday 19th June and saw someone meeting this description or you witnessed what happened, then please contact us as soon as possible.

"We would also urge anyone with any other information relevant to this ongoing investigation to get in touch."

Anyone with information can contact officers via 101, quoting incident number 2518 of the 19th June. Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.