A TEENAGE girl was reportedly sexually assaulted while walking in Southbourne. 

Dorset Police received a report that a teenage girl was walking near to the junction of Seafield Road and Tuckton Road when a man approached her and touched her inappropriately.

The incident was reported to have occurred at around 7.35am on Tuesday, September 17.

Officers attended and a full investigation was launched by detectives from BCP CID.

Police have also been providing ongoing support to the victim.

Following detailed enquiries, a local man aged in his 50s has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault. He remains in police custody.

Detective chief inspector Andy Bell, of BCP CID, said: “Officers responded immediately to this report and following extensive enquiries, we have now made an arrest.

“We will continue to take reports of this nature very seriously and do all we can to ensure victims are supported and those suspected of being involved are identified and dealt with.

“We are continuing to carry out enquiries into this incident and I would urge any witnesses, or anyone with information that might assist our investigation, to please contact us.

“Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team will be conducting increased patrols in the vicinity to provide reassurance to the local community and can be approached by anyone with information or concerns.”