A WOMAN was forced to fight off an attacker during a terrifying assault along a Hampshire footpath.

The 38-year-old was using headphones and did not hear the offender approaching.

After a struggle, the frightened victim fell in to a bush and kicked out at the man who ran off.

A team of 20 detectives are involved in an investigation and are hunting a 6ft, white man in his late teens to early 20s.

The assault happened at around 4.20pm yesterday to the right of the Hoeford In pub on Fareham Road in Gosport.

Witnesses should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555111.