Girl (15) grabbed by man as she walked through Fife park

A schoolgirl has been subjected to a terrifying assault by a man in a Fife park.

The 15-year-old was walking through wooded area in Riverside Park, Glenrothes, along the footpath which runs between Dunbar Court and the Leslie viaduct at around 7.20pm last night.

She was approached by a man who grabbed hold of her arm. Fortunately, the young girl was able to free herself and run off.

The assailant also ran away and police are now appealing for the public’s help in tracking him down.

The man is described as white, aged between 18 and 40, 5’11” tall, of slim build, with stubble. He was wearing a black hooded zip-up top, black tracksuit bottoms and black trainers. He had a deep voice and local accent.

Detective Inspector Paul Dick said, “This was a frightening, unprovoked assault on the girl who was extremely shaken by what happened but did not suffer any physical injury.

“Officers immediately attended the area after being alerted to the assault shortly after it happened but the man was not found and we have been carrying out inquiries in the area today in order to trace him.

“This is a popular route especially with dog walkers and I would appeal to anyone who was in the area last night and may have seen the man before or after the assault took place to contact Glenrothes CID.

“Three males were seen in the area around this time using a motorbike and I am particularly keen for them to get in touch.”