AN attacker wearing black leather gloves assaulted a woman in a Wirral park.

The 41-year-old victim was walking her dog in the park at Dawstone Road, Heswall, when she was grabbed from behind.

She managed to break free, then ran away and called police.

Officers say the victim was unhurt but very upset by the incident, which happened last Thursday, March 13.

They believe a green van seen near the park might have some connection to the crime.

Police have carried out a search of the park and CCTV is being examined.

The attacker is aged between 50 and 60, 5ft 6in tall, and has short dark hair.

He was wearing black leather gloves and a grey or blue zip-up canvas jacket.

Detective Inspector Mark Tivendale said: "We take reports of this nature very seriously and patrols in the area were increased in a bid to identify the man responsible.

"We are keen to hear from anyone who might have seen a green van in the area at the time, as the owner of this vehicle could also have important information.

"It is possible there were other people in the area who might have seen the green van or a man acting suspiciously.

"You might have very important information that could assist our inquiries."

Contact Wirral CID 0151 777 2274 or Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555 111.