POLICE have released CCTV footage of a man they would like to speak with following an attack which saw a woman repeatedly punched near Bournemouth seafront.

Detectives investigating the incident, which took place last Friday, around 8.05am in Alum Chine, are also renewing their appeal for witnesses to come forward.

A woman was walking up steps leading to West Overcliff Drive when the assault took place, with the offender punching the woman repeatedly before he fled the scene.

The victim – a 33-year-old woman from Poole – suffered cuts and bruises in the incident and was taken to hospital for treatment. She was discharged later that day.

The offender is described as white, aged in his 20s, six feet tall with a slim face and short brown hair.

Detective Constable Sara Watts, of Bournemouth CID, said: “As part of my investigation, I am now in a position to release CCTV footage and images of a man I would like to speak with as I believe he may be able to assist me with my investigation.

"The video footage shows a man walking past the Libertine Pub in Westbourne at around 7.45am on Friday, November 13.

“The CCTV image shows the same man in the Westbourne area on the same day.

“I would urge this man, or anyone who recognises him, to please call me on 101.

“I would also like to renew my appeal for anyone who saw a man acting suspiciously in the Alum Chine area on that Friday morning to please call me urgently. In particular, I know that a woman was jogging through the chine just before the incident and she may have important information for the enquiry.

“All calls will be treated in strict confidence.

“I would like to reassure members of the public that incidents such as this are rare in Dorset and we take it very seriously.”

Neighbourhood Policing Teams have been carrying out increased patrols in the area to provide reassurance to the public.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 13:63 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.