A MAN made several attempts to kiss a woman in Bournemouth before sexually assaulting her in Markham Road.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident and have subsequently released an image of a man they would like to speak to.

At around 2.25am on Wednesday, July 7, the victim – a young woman – was approached by a man as she walked along Charminster Road.

The man then walked with the victim along Heron Court Road and made several attempts to kiss her.

The victim was then sexually assaulted by the man at an address.

The offender was reportedly carrying a rucksack that had a speaker within it and was playing music. It is believed he may be eastern European.

Detective Inspector Simon Huxter, of Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “The victim in this incident is being supported by specially-trained officers.

“As part of our enquiries we have obtained an image of a man we are keen to identify as part of our investigation and I would urge anyone with information as to his identity to please contact us.

“I would also ask motorists with dashcams and residents with home CCTV systems or doorbell cameras in the vicinity to please check their footage for anything relevant.

“There will be an increased police presence in the area as our investigation continues and local officers can be approached by members of the community with any information or concerns.

“It is completely unacceptable for any woman to be subjected to this type of behaviour and Dorset Police is absolutely committed to doing all we can to investigate reports of this nature and bring offenders to justice.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email to 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210107989.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.