POLICE are investigating a rape in the early hours of Saturday morning in Poole.

At around 2am, on Saturday, September 4, a woman aged in her 40s met a man on a bench near Slug & Lettuce in the High Street, before walking him toward Baiter Park where he allegedly raped her.

They walked together along Poole Quay, Stanley Road, Green Road, Green Gardens and Labrador Drive, before entering Baiter Park.

Police have now released images of a man they would like to speak to in relation to this incident.

Bournemouth Echo:

Detective Sergeant Ian Allen, of Bournemouth CID, said: “We are carrying out a full and detailed investigation into this incident and are continuing to provide support to the victim.

“I am issuing a CCTV image of a man I would like to identify as part of my enquiries and I would urge anyone who recognises him to please come forward. While I appreciate the image is not of the best quality, I am hoping someone may be able to identify him from his clothing.

“I would also urge motorists who travelled the route taken by the victim and the suspect between 2.30am and 3am to please check their dashcam for any relevant footage to help my investigation.

“We understand that reports of this nature will undoubtedly cause concern for the wider community. Local officers carrying out patrols in the area can be approached by any member of the public who has concerns or would like to pass on information.”

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 55210143179.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.