POLICE are hunting a man who sexually assaulted a young woman and told her he was from Bournemouth.

The incident happened in Weymouth town centre at around 4.15am this morning and has been described as a “serious sexual assault.”

The victim, an 18-year-old local woman, had left the Actors Club in Maiden Street when she was approached by a man in St Mary Street.

Police said the man walked with the victim until they got to Frederick Place where the assault occurred in the entrance to an address.

A neighbour heard the victim screaming and arrived at the scene, at which point the offender ran off.

The man is described as black, of athletic build and aged in his late teens to early 20s with short shaved black hair and facial hair.

He was wearing a dark-coloured top and light-coloured jeans as well as a black scarf.

Detective Sergeant Dave Horn, of Weymouth CID, said: “We have launched a full investigation into this incident and are continuing to support the victim.

“We are carrying out a number of enquiries, including a review of CCTV footage in the area, and a cordon has been put in place to allow for an examination of the scene.

“I am appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information about this incident to please contact us.”

Chief Inspector Steve Yeoman, of Dorset Police, said: “I would like to reassure the local community that a full investigation is underway to identify the man responsible for this offence.”

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 55190074677. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.