A WOMAN was sexually assaulted in a white van in Poole on Wednesday, according to police.

Dorset Police said the woman, aged in her 40s, had been "forcibly persuaded" by a man to get into the passenger seat of the van in Jellicoe Close, off Constitution Hill, and she was then allegedly the victim of sexual assault.

A spokesman said no physical force was used to make her enter the van, but she was "intimidated".

Afterwards, she got out of the van and left. She was not physically injured.

Police were called to the scene at 3.55pm.

The van, which had ladders on the back, was found nearby.

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Karen Penn, of Bournemouth CID, said: "I believe that shortly after the reported incident, the man approached a second woman and spoke to her.

"I would urge anyone who has been approached by a man in unusual circumstances in the area to please contact Dorset Police.

"I am also keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or who saw a similar van driving in the area in recent weeks."

A 43-year-old man from Christchurch was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and has been released on police bail until mid-February pending further enquiries.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55170012486. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.