POLICE investigating a sex attack on a 14-year-old girl in Linwood have issued an e-fit image of a man they are keen to trace.

The appeal for information comes more than six weeks after the schoolgirl was seriously assaulted in a wooded area near the ON-X Sports Centre, in Brediland Road.

She had been with a group of friends on Saturday, April 21 and, after leaving the woods, made her way back there at around 9.30pm to look for something she had lost.

In the moments that followed, the girl was approached from behind by a man who subjected her to a terrifying ordeal.

Since then, there has been an increased police presence in the area.

Officers have spoken to scores of people as part of their investigation, as well as scouring CCTV footage.

The Gazette:

The man in the e-fit image is described as white, around 21 years of age, of heavy build, with dark hair, thick eyebrows and dark facial stubble.

He was wearing a black hooded top and black jogging or tracksuit trousers.

Detective Inspector Ian Ross told The Gazette: "This was a very traumatic experience for the young girl concerned, who had been out in the local area with friends before being assaulted.

"I would like to reassure the local community that we are continuing extensive enquiries into this incident.

"That area is popular with dog walkers and joggers and I am appealing to anyone who may have seen this man, who we believe may be able to assist with our enquiries, or noticed anything suspicious to contact police.

"If you have any information, however small, it could prove vital in helping us trace the person responsible.

"I would like to confirm that additional patrols will be in the area to offer reassurance to local people and, if anyone has any concerns, please speak to officers."

Anyone with information is asked to call officers at the Paisley Public Protection Unit on 101. Alternatively, ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be given anonymously.