A WOMAN in her 20s was sexually assaulted near the Springbourne Roundabout, sparking a police investigation.

Dorset Police’s major crime investigation team (MCIT) is carrying out enquiries after a woman was sexually assaulted sometime between 11.30pm on Saturday, October 2 and 1am on Sunday, October 3.

Officers have been carrying out a detailed search of the area on Tuesday, October 5 as part of the ongoing investigation.

Detective Chief Inspector Jez Noyce, of MCIT, said: “We are doing everything we can to support the victim at this difficult time and we are still working to establish the full circumstances of the incident.

“As part of our investigation, I am keen to hear from anyone who may have dashcam footage covering the area of the Springbourne Roundabout, Holdenhurst Road, Richmond Park Road or the slip roads off the A338 between the hours 11.30pm on Saturday, October 2 and 1am on Sunday, October 3.

“Any footage can be uploaded directly to the UK Police Major Incident Public Portal that has been set up for this incident.

“I would also like to hear from anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area.”

Neighbourhood Inspector Helen Deakin, of Bournemouth police, said: “We understand reports of this nature may cause concern for the wider community.

“I would like to reassure members of the public that this matter is now the subject of a detailed investigation and there will be an increased police presence in the area as these enquiries continue.

“Officers can be approached by members of the community with any information or concerns.”

Detectives are urging anyone with information, images or footage relevant to the investigation to submit it via the UK Police Major Incident Public Portal at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/55HQ21M73-PO1.

For anyone without access to the internet contact can be made via 101, quoting occurrence 55210159476.

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.