DORSET Police are appealing for witnesses following a sexual assault on the steps outside of Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre. 

Two women were approached by a man on the steps to the theatre prior to a show at around 7.20pm to 7.25pm on Wednesday, August 11.

The man is described as white, approximately five feet eight inches tall and of a stocky build. He is described as being between 30 and 35 years old with short dark hair that was styled and well-groomed.

He was wearing blue chino style shorts with a crewneck white T-shirt and he was carrying a tan-coloured rucksack. 

Police Constable Poppy Lovell-Young, of Dorset Police, said: “I am appealing to anyone who was in the area around the relevant time and witnessed the incident, or may have any information to assist our enquiries, to please come forward.

“I understand there was a group of women nearby who may have witnessed the incident and I would ask them to come forward as they may have information to assist my investigation.

“This was a very distressing incident for both of the women and we are carrying out a full investigation to identify the offender."

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 55210101529.

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111. 

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