A YOUNG woman is recovering at home after being bundled into a car, taken to a secluded spot and indecently assaulted.

The attack happened at around 12.30pm on Saturday when the woman, in her early twenties and described by police as 'vulnerable', was pulled into the car in Fossway, York, not far from her home.

The middle-aged man, driving a dark blue Ford Escort, or similar, drove off and stopped in Muncastergate on the outskirts of the city.

He chose a secluded part of the road between houses and Heworth Golf Club, hidden from view by trees and overhanging foliage to carry out the terrifying attack.

A police spokesman said the woman then managed to struggle free of her assailant and escape from the car.

He said: "The man initially spoke to the victim asking for directions to a public venue in York. He then bundled her into the car and drove approximately one mile away to Muncastergate, near Heworth Golf Club.

"He locked all four car doors before indecently assaulting the woman.

"She was then able to escape from the vehicle and made her way to her family who informed the police."

DC Ian Murray, of York CID, said: "The woman is very distressed but fortunately didn't require medical treatment and is now in the care of her family.

"Following appeals for information over the weekend we have got a few more leads but it is still very early days."

The man is described as white, with short brown hair and glasses and was wearing a blue, red and white checked shirt.

Police are said to be very concerned about the incident and anyone who may have seen a dark blue four-door Ford Escort car or similar containing a middle-aged man and young woman parked in Muncastergate at that time should contact York Helpdesk on 01904 669389. Calls will be treated in confidence.