A WOMAN was assaulted by a man she thought was a taxi driver after trying to get home in the early hours of Christmas Day.

The 31-year-old victim had been drinking in Peterborough city centre with friends on Christmas Eve before making her way home at about 4am.

A charcoal grey vehicle, possibly a Vauxhall Vectra, stopped as she walked along Park Road. The woman, thinking the vehicle was a taxi, accepted the offer of a lift back to the address in Gunthorpe.

The woman was dropped off in Uldale Way but the driver returned to the house a short while later and knocked on the door. When she answered he tried to force his way into the home. The woman managed to fight him off before fleeing.

The offender is described as white, six foot, of medium build with short blond hair.

Det Sgt Adam Fraser, investigating, said: “This was a terrifying incident for the victim who showed great bravery to fight off the attacker.

“I would appeal to anyone who saw the vehicle in Park Road or the man running off along Uldale Way following the attack.

“The offender may have sustained facial injuries during the incident and I would like to speak to anyone who has a friend or relative with unexplained marks on their face from around that time.

“I would also urge people to ensure they use licensed taxi companies and book in advance where possible.”

Anyone with any information should call DS Fraser on 0345 456 456 4 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.