Detectives have released an efit of a man they are hunting after a lone woman was punched repeatedly as she walked through woodland.

The 23-year-old was thumped “several times on the back of her head” by the would-be mugger in Pages Wood, Harold Wood, at about 3.50pm on Sunday, March 23.

He fled after being disturbed by two passers-by.

The woman was taken by ambulance to hospital and kept in for several nights.

Her injuries are not thought to be life-changing.

Nothing was stolen in the attack.

The suspect is white, aged between 25 and 28, about 5ft 10ins, of athletic build with shaven dark hair and was wearing dark clothing.

The assault did not involve a sex attack, say police.

Det Sgt Niall McSheffrey, of Havering CID, said: “We are appealing for any witnesses who may have seen an altercation or the suspect in Pages Wood. We would also advise people to be vigilant when in the area.”

Witnesses should call Det Sgt McSheffrey on 101, quoting reference number 5404341/14 or, to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers’ anonymity guarantee has never been broken. Callers are not even asked for their name.