A man followed a woman down a West Ham street before grabbing her from behind and attempting to rape her, police have said.

The woman, aged in her 30s, was approached by a stranger in Paul Street close to the junction with West Ham Lane at 10.30pm on June 1.

The man followed her before grabbing her from behind and then attempting to rape her.

Police officers arrived at the scene within minutes, but the man had already left the area.

It is believed that he ran away from Paul Street in the direction of West Ham Lane after the woman’s scream for help.

Police have described the man as white, 5ft 8ins tall and of medium build, with dark hair and a beard.

He was wearing a light denim jacket, a dark v-neck T-shirt and dark trousers.

Police have now released an image of a man they would like to speak with in connection to the incident.

Detective Chief Inspector Jonathan Burks, overseeing the investigation, said: “I want to reassure people our officers are working around the clock to identify the man responsible for this awful incident.

"We have dedicated specialist officers who are supporting the victim through this traumatic time.

“Our local officers will be around to talk to the community about any concerns they may have and we urge anyone who recognises this man or who has information that could assist police to get in contact immediately.”

If you have information that could help police, call 101 quoting reference CAD 7635/01Jun24.

You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.