CCTV picture: Manhunt after woman sexually assaulted in Christchurch

A WOMAN was sexually assaulted in Christchurch town centre in the early hours.

The attack on the 19-year-old took place in an alleyway near the Kelly’s Kitchen café in High Street around 2am on Sunday 15th March, and police have now released a CCTV image of a man they want to trace in connection with it.

Having spent an evening in Soho bar with family, the woman was walking along High Street where she was approached by a man near the Regent Centre and they walked down the alleyway together.

The man then grabbed her hand and forced her to touch him sexually. She tried to pull away but he made a second attempt while she was against a wall. He eventually walked away.

The victim was left with minor bruising and grazes.

PC Mark Mills said: “This was a very distressing ordeal for the victim and we have been carrying out a number of enquiries into this incident.

“As part of our investigation I am issuing a CCTV image of a man I would like to speak to.

“I would ask anyone who recognises him to please get in touch.”

Those with information should contact Dorset Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 55200039766, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.