A WOMAN was subjected to a “distressing” sex attack as she waited for a bus outside Poole Hospital, it has emerged.

Detectives have released an e-fit image of a man they want to speak to in connection with the afternoon assault, which left a 55-year-old woman badly shaken.

The Poole woman was waiting at the bus stop, outside the busy hospital’s main Longfleet Road entrance, when the attacker struck.

Police, who say he “inappropriately touched” the woman, are anxious to trace the man as quickly as possible.

They believe someone will recognise the attacker and that several people may have witnessed the assault between 3.10 - 3.30pm on May 5.

Officers only released the e-fit and description yesterday.

Detective Sergeant Neil Wright of Poole CID said: “The area around Poole Hospital will have been busy at this time in the afternoon.

“Following further enquiries, I am now able to release an e-fit of the man responsible for this distressing attack.

“I am appealing for anyone who recognises this man to contact me urgently.

“It may be that someone, perhaps several people, will have witnessed this incident or seen this man.”

The attacker was white, aged in his late 20s to early 30s, around 5ft 10ins, medium build, with brown and ginger collar length hair.

He was wearing blue jeans, a pale-coloured Lacoste T-shirt and blue trainers with white piped edging.

Det Sgt Wright added: “Anyone who has information is urged to get in touch with Dorset Police at the earliest possible opportunity.

“All calls will be in the strictest confidence.”