Man sought after violent sexual assault in Sunbury

A Sunbury woman has been hospitalised and will undergo facial surgery today after being sexually assaulted and robbed in a reserve early Sunday.

Police are hunting a man believed to be in aged his 20s after the woman, 54, was approached from behind and thrown to the ground while walking through a reserve between Percival Street and Gilchrist Cresent.

Sexual crimes squad detectives said the man sexually and physically assaulted her before stealing her handbag.

He was described as Caucasian, 20-30-years-old, 182cm with curly or wavy brown hair. He was wearing shorts and a T-shirt and had no shoes on.

Police have urged anyone who finds the contents of the woman’s black, silver studded handbag to contact police.

Items in the bag included a purple long-sleeved shirt, two pink drink bottles, white gloves, a comb, lip balm and an iPhone in a purple cover.

Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au