Police are searching for a man who is said to have held a woman to the ground in Helston's churchyard and tried to assault her.

The incident is said to have happened between 1.30am and 2am last Sunday, September 19, in the grounds of St Michael's Church close to Osborne Parc.

It was as the woman was returning back from a Saturday night out with friends.

The partner of the woman involved has now posted on Facebook to warn people to take care and also appeal for anyone who saw what happened to get in touch with police – in particular two people believed to be walking with or near the man shortly before the attack was said to have happened.

He said: "Last Saturday, the 18th of September, after a night out with friends, my partner was assaulted by a male with short, black spiked hair (crew cut), black t-shirt, blue jeans, approximately 5ft 4in to 5ft 6in, stocky-ish build, whilst walking through to the Osborne Parc side of the churchyard on Church Street.

"The male was walking with two other people who parted ways from him in the churchyard and headed towards Church Hill (towards Parc Eglos/Helston School) just seconds before the attack.

"During the assault my partner managed to hit out and escape and was then helped by a couple who phoned the police, but the assailant had ran off and got away."

He said police were checking multiple CCTV points in the area, adding: "As this is a serious crime we have been assured there will be an intense and thorough investigation.

"This is an urgent appeal to the two friends/associates/potential witnesses who were with the male to inform the police of the male's identity or give any information they can about him or his whereabouts."

He also urged people to spread awareness "and help make our streets safe again".

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "Police are investigating reports of an assault in Helston on Sunday, September 19.

"The incident is reported to have taken place between 1.30am and 2am in the cemetery near Osborne Parc.

"The female victim is believed to have been approached by an unknown man who held her to the floor and attempted to further assault her.

"The victim was able to push the man away and the incident was reported a short time later."

Anyone who saw what happened, or who has information that could help the inquiry, is asked to contact police on 101 quoting CR/081392/21.