A woman who was sexually assaulted whilst jogging before work in Thamesmead says her attacker has taken away her freedom - but continues to warn others of the risks.

The victim, who lives in Belvedere, was attacked as she ran along the Thames Path near Manorway Green park at around 5.30am on May 16.

The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was approached and grabbed by the strange man, who she says appeared to be on drugs, but managed to elbow him and struggle free.

Terrifyingly as she made her escape the woman, who runs three times a week, realised she was being chased by her attacker, who was now travelling on a “getaway bike” behind her.

She eventually out-ran him and was able to report the incident to the police.

Map: The scene of the attack

She told News Shopper: “I have been running in the same area for six years.

“I wouldn’t go back to that path anymore, not at all. That’s taken away my freedom.

“It’s a very isolated area, sometimes you go an hour without seeing anyone.

“That’s why I enjoyed running there, but there are other paths.”

The woman once knew a child who died from drowning and said the risk of being so close to the River Thames, rather than encountering strange men, was what had always worried her.

She added: “What if you see someone who’s just had an accident, or if they have thrown themselves into the river?

News Shopper:

Picture: Google Maps

“It’s really difficult to get help if you needed it. There is a lack of CCTV and you don’t really meet anybody.

“There is always that worry: ‘What is someone is in trouble, what if they need help?’ That’s always been a concern.”

The victim is now calling on local authorities to publicise the attack, adding: “I think it’s a shame that I did go through that path on Saturday and there is still nothing there, no poster.

“Just to have something to alert people, to say: ‘Something’s happened here, be careful.’

“There is a risk that this person will strike again. I would rather know that an incident has happened there.

“The fact that my daughter is at risk by some lunatic is very scary.

“People need to be aware. Go running in pairs – you are not as likely to be attacked if you are in company.

“I’m very passionate about this. I am a strong woman. I am proud I elbowed him.

“Maybe next time he will go for someone more vulnerable. I guess that’s the driver for me.

“At least knows he is being looked for if he comes back to the area.”

The suspect is said to be of Turkish appearance, about 5ft 8ins and clean shaven. He spoke with a London accent, with an eastern tone.

At the time of the attack he was wearing a yellow body warmer, a navy hoodie with the hood up, blue jeans, and carrying a dark rucksack.

Met Police officers are appealing for witnesses. Call Bexley CID on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting reference 3610214/16.