A teenage girl was hit in the face with a rock or brick as she sat in a park.

The 15-year-old was in Loughton Fields, off Roding Road, when she was attacked by a man at around 7pm last Wednesday.

Police have not released further details about the circumstances, but describe the attacker as black, 5ft 7ins and wearing a black or grey hooded top.

He is of slim build, clean shaven and carrying a black bag.

A police officer was scrambled to help with the manhunt, but the attacker could not be found.

CCTV pictures taken in the area are now being examined.

A police spokeswoman said: “The girl was struck in the face with an item believed to be a rock or a brick which caused facial injuries and required stitches and dental treatment."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC Michael King on the neighbourhood crime team on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.