A WOMAN escaped the clutches of a would-be sex attacker in Southampton after he grabbed and threatened to assault her.

The 23-year-old woman was walking alone along Radcliffe Road, Northam, at around 2.20am on Sunday when the man approached her on a bike.

He grabbed her shoulder and said he was going to sexually assault her, police said.

The woman pushed him away and broke free. Another man intervened and walker her home, while the cyclist rode off towards Northam Bridge.

Police appealed for witnesses and asked the man who walked the victim home to come forward.

The cyclist is described as white, under 6ft tall, slim, aged 20 to 22 and wearing a grey hoodie.

He spoke with an English accent.

Detective Constable Kate Rainscourt said: "We believe the man cycled off towards Summer Street and then Northam Bridge. Did you see him?

“We would also like to trace the man who intervened and walked the young woman home after this frightening incident. Was this you? Please get in contact via 101 and quote 44160266260.

“Thankfully these incidents are reasonably rare, but they are reminder for people going out on the weekend to consider personal safety.

“Always try and walk home with a friend. Plan your night out and consider how you are going to get home. Put some money aside for a taxi, arrange a lift if possible, or walk home with some one you trust.”