An MP has condemned the 'horrific attack' of a young girl, who was assaulted as she walked to school.

The 12-year-old girl was grabbed by three men, who brandished a broken piece of glass and scratched her face, arms and wrist with it.

Police are seeking witnesses in connection with the assault, which happened in broad daylight at about 9am on Thursday, January 25.

Investigations are under way after the attack happened on a footpath between St Margaret's Road and Church Road in Lowestoft.

MORE: Drunken men attack 12-year-old schoolgirl with broken glass

The young girl was walking alone along the footpath in Lowestoft when she was approached by three men, who were wearing black hooded tops and described as 'very drunk.'

They grabbed her and then scratched her causing superficial cuts, according to police.

The victim bravely managed to free herself and flee, while the attackers 'staggered away.'

A Suffolk police spokesman said the incident happened while the 12-year-old was walking to school, and the young girl was subsequently admitted to hospital for further treatment following the attack.

Condemning the incident, Waveney MP Peter Aldous urged people in Lowestoft to come forward with any information about the assault.

Mr Aldous said: 'My thoughts are very much with the young girl, who was subjected to this attack in the most horrific circumstances. I am absolutely horrified that this has taken place, and in broad daylight as well.

'My thoughts are with her, and her family, at this awful time.

'I would urge anyone who witnessed this horrific attack, or if you have any suspicions or thoughts about who might be involved, to come forward and contact police as quickly as possible.'

Residents have reacted to the attack with similar anger. One said: 'A child is not safe walking, probably to school, at 9am in the morning - disgusting.'

Another added: 'This is terrible, poor girl.'

? Anyone who witnessed the incident, saw any suspicious activity in the St Margaret's Road and Church Road area of Lowestoft at around 9am on Thursday, January 25, or who has any knowledge of it should contact Lowestoft police on 101, quoting crime reference 37/4698/18.