Passerby stops attempted rape of 13-year-old near Emirates Stadium

The attacker has been described as white, muscular and around 6ft with black and grey hair

The attack took place near Arsenal's ground (Getty Images)

Police in north London are searching for a man who allegedly dragged a schoolgirl into an alleyway in an attempted rape before being stopped by a member of the public.

The 13-year-old was walking along Highbury Hill, near the Emirates Stadium in Islington, on Thursday morning when she was approached by the suspect.

The man, who has been described as white, muscular and around 6ft with black and grey hair, is said to have put his hand over her mouth and pulled her into Coach House Lane.

She escaped after a passerby saw what was happening and confronted the attacker, causing him to flee on a bicycle stolen from a teenage boy.

He rode away before leaving the bicycle on the street and running off.

Police are treating the incident as an attempted rape and are still looking for the suspect and teenage boy.

"Enquiries are underway to identify and arrest the suspect, who was bravely confronted by a member of the public, who no doubt prevented further serious offences from taking place," said Detective Constable Ben Lucas in a statement.

"The victim is being supported by specially trained officers and is providing information to assist the investigation."

Witnesses to the incident, which took place at around 8:20am, have been asked to call Crimestoppers or local police on 101.

"We would particularly like to speak to the boy whose bike was stolen by the suspect as he may have vital information that could help us to identify the suspect," said Detective Constable Lucas.