A MAN sexually assaulted a 15-year-old schoolgirl in broad daylight in the centre of Poole.

The attack happened near the town’s busy bus station at 8.15am on Tuesday.

Police say a stranger approached the girl and “touched her inappropriately with force” as she walked from Poole bus station through the underpass of Seldown Bridge towards the Dolphin Swimming Pool.

They are asking for a man who helped the girl following her ordeal to come forward.

The man ran off when the victim, who is from the area, screamed.

She was not physically injured.

PC Kerry Shelley, of Poole police, said: “I am appealing for witnesses and anyone with information about this incident to contact police in confidence.

“This has been an extremely upsetting ordeal for the young victim who has been left very distressed.

“I am also keen to speak with a man who came to the aid of the teenager moments after the attack. Unfortunately he left the scene before police arrived and without leaving any contact details.

“We believe he may have seen the offender or have further information that may help with our enquiries.”

The offender is described as a white man of slight build, with a tanned complexion and dark hair with curls by the ears. He was wearing a black skull cap and was dressed all in black.

Poole Town councillor and deputy mayor Cllr Carol Evans described the attack as ‘horrific’.

She said: “Even at that time, there should have been a lot of people around, so hopefully the right people will come forward and give the information they have to the police.

“But it is terrible that a young girl, probably on her way to school, is not safe. I hope the police find the person responsible.

“I think things need to be done, to allow people to feel much safer, but I’m sure that the police do the best that they can.

“The CCTV camera surveillance is lacking in that area, and we have tried to get the lighting improved at Poole bus station, but that needs further work.”

She added that she hoped the victim would get all the help and support she needs.

No arrests have been made.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 17:69.

Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111, where mobile phone tariffs may apply.