Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was sexually assaulted in a mini-cab on Christmas Day.

At 1.40am on Christmas morning, the 20-year-old victim tried to hire mini-cab in Croydon.

After initially failing to get a mini-cab, a group of women approached her and helped order one from the victim's mobile phone.

The mini-cab then picked the 20-year-old up at the top of Laud Street/High Street, at which point she got in and asked to be taken home.

Around 15 minutes into the journey, the driver stopped in Penge Road/Sunnybank Road in South Norwood where he sexually assaulted her.

She managed to get away out of the rear door and flagged down a passing car whose occupants called police. The driver then made off.

PC Louise Coleman, from the roads and transport policing command appealed for any witnesses to come forward.

"The suspect took complete advantage of a vulnerable female and the incident has left her extremely shaken," she said.

"If you were there that night, or have any information which could help progress this investigation, please get in touch."

Police would like to speak with any members of the group who helped the victim get a mini cab, particularly the female who ordered the mini cab for her.

The suspect is described as a male with brown skin.

If you have any information you can contact the Taxi and Private Hire Policing Investigations Unit on 0208 345 1076.

Alternatively, you can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.