DETECTIVES hunting for a man who grabbed a teenage girl in Poole have released an e-fit of the offender.

The 15-year-old was approached by a stranger who grabbed her arm and tried to pull her away as she made her way through the subway on Ringwood Road near the Alderney roundabout.

Fortunately the schoolgirl was able to shake him off and run away, escaping uninjured. She was left upset and very scared by the harrowing incident.

The assault happened sometime between 3.30pm and 4.10pm on Friday February 8. Police are now renewing their appeal for help and information from the public.

Detective Constable James Batty, of Poole CID, said: “Following further investigation, I am now able to release an e-fit image of a man I am keen to speak with.

“I would urge the man pictured to make contact with Dorset Police as soon as possible.

“This has been a very upsetting experience for the young victim, and she has been left extremely scared.

“I would also ask witnesses and anyone with information about the incident to come forward as they might be able to assist with our enquiries.”

At the time of the attack police released a description of the offender, who was white, aged between 20 and 40, around 5ft 5in tall with light brown stubble, wearing a hooded top. Police have not yet established his motivation for the assault.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 12:245. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.

This incident follows a sex attack on a 20-year-old student in Bournemouth, in the subway between Holdenhurst Road and the travel interchange around 1.30pm on February 1. A man was arrested and released on police bail in connection with theincident.

And on February 4 a 26-year-old Christchurch woman was indecently assaulted as she walked along Commercial Road near Poole Civic Centre, by the crossing leading to North Road at 8.30am.