Teenager arrested after estate agent attacked in Halesowen house

The woman had gone to the house in Cherry Tree Lane, shortly before 3pm on Monday, minutes after receiving a call from a man claiming that she had missed a viewing and that he was waiting outside for her.

Once inside the property the 35-year-old noticed a man at the back door. As she opened the door she was shoved inside the property and pushed up against the wall.

The man fled after the estate agent fought back. He was described as black, around 5ft 6ins tall and of a stocky build, wearing dark clothing including gloves and a hat.

Officers investigating the attack arrested a 17-year-old man on suspicion of assault.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Hanson said: "The woman is very shaken by her ordeal but fortunately she was not seriously hurt.

"Our investigation is still very much on-going and I am appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time and saw this man to call me or one of my team.

"We believe the man ran away from the property and we are keen to establish if he was seen getting into a car or boarding a bus to escape.

"If anyone saw a man matching the description on the day in question then please contact us – no matter how insignificant you feel the information is it may be crucial for this case."

Anyone with information should call the police on 101, or alternatively leave information anonymously by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.