Neighbours have spoken of their shock after a woman was sexually assaulted in a residential area.

The attack took place at about 3.15am on Saturday, June 8, in Charlmont Road, Tooting, near the junction of Himley Road.

The woman, in her 20s, was approached from behind as she was walking down the road.

When she cried out the attacker fled the scene.

Yesterday women living in the area have expressed their shock, with no signs or warnings being issued to neighbours by police.

Danielle Spires, 30, a lawyer, who lives close to where it happened, said she was not informed of the attack.

She said: "It is massively surprising, I have never had any problems. I am really shocked, I didn't know anything about it."

Claire Holden, 23, a writer, who also lives closeby, said: "It’s terrifying to think that the police aren’t bothered to warn people, especially women, of sexual attacks when it is on your own doorstep.

"Of course you let your guard down on nights out or when you’re walking alone, sometimes when you feel safe, but we absolutely need to know about known predators or spates of sexually-motivated crimes so we can always be on guard."

Philippa Sitters, 25, of Maybury Street, Tooting, said: "I've been chased down the street before in Tooting.

"I'm always a bit wary walking around late at night, but everyone should be informed of a serious incident so we can all look out for each other - spread awareness before it happens again."

Laura Bevan, 23, a press officer, of Hebdon Road, Tooting, said:  "It’s really scary that there is such a low level of awareness about these assaults, and there are no warnings being given out.

"I know a lot of young professional women who go out and socialise in the area, and I think they would like to know what’s taking place."

The suspect is described as a black man aged between 25 and 30, 6ft and of athletic build.

He was wearing baggy clothing, a dark coloured body warmer and has a London accent.

The incident follows two other sexual assaults earlier this year at train stations in Tooting, but police have said they are not linking the incidents as the suspect description does not match.

Police have said they have increased presence in the area and at nearby transport hubs.

Anyone with any information can call the national non-emergency number, 101, or call CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.