TERRIFIED parents are accompanying their daughters to school after a girl was attacked just yards from their school gate.

The 13-year-old schoolgirl was indecently assaulted as she made her way home from school.

The attack, by a complete stranger, took place in an alleyway between Upton Road and Rochester Drive, just round the corner from Townley Grammar School for Girls, in Townley Road.

The teenager became aware she was being followed by a man as she walked home through the alleyway on September 19 at about 4.15pm.

But as soon as she realised he was there, he grabbed her from behind. The attacker put his hand over the girl's mouth to stop her from screaming for help.

Then he dragged her into a secluded area where he assaulted her. The man then abandoned the girl and ran off towards Upton Road in the direction of the access road to the A2.

Last week, seven days after the attack, police were out in force on the streets surrounding the alleyway, talking to people, asking if they had seen anything and appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

The attacker is described as white, medium build and in his mid-20s. He was unshaven and had short cropped hair. He was wearing a dark-coloured bomber-style jacket, black tracksuit bottoms and white trainers.

Detective Sergeant Pat Carey, who is leading the hunt said: “This young girl was put through a terrifying ordeal. I would urge all those who use that particular alleyway to remain vigilant and stay in groups if possible. If you see anyone acting suspiciously, even in a seemingly minor way, please contact the police.”

He added: “All calls will be treated with the utmost care and sensitivity.”

One worried parent who rang the News Shopper said everyone at the girls' grammar school, near the scene of the attack, was frightened for the safety of the girls and many parents are escorting their daughters to and from school.

If you have any information about the attack, call Det Sgt Pat Carey at Bexleyheath CID on 020 8284 9236 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.