POLICE have appealed for help in identifying a vital witness as they investigate a complaint of attempted rape.

They hope someone will recognise the person featured in the CCTV image.

Detectives said an offence of attempted rape took place inside an address in Wimborne Road, Winton, Bournemouth between 1.45am and 2.30am on Saturday January 13.

The victim, a woman aged her 20s, was assaulted by an unknown man who was among a group of people she had met that evening. She is being supported by specially-trained officers.

A full investigation is underway, led by detectives from the Serious Sexual Offences Team.

Detective Constable Stef Belton, of the Serious Sexual Offences Team, said: "As part of my investigation I am keen to identify a woman who I believe may have vital information that could assist my investigation. The CCTV image is taken from the bar area in Saxo, Charminster Road, during the early hours of Saturday January 13. I appreciate the image is not very clear but it is the best we can obtain.

"I would like to stress this woman is being treated as an important witness and I would ask her, or anyone who knows who she is, to please make contact with Dorset Police."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.