DETECTIVES are hunting a sex attacker who could be responsible for seven crimes in the Bournemouth area.

Police have received reports of seven similar offences in the Alum Chine and town centre areas between January and June this year.

They say forensic evidence confirms the same man is responsible for at least two of the attacks and they are keeping an open mind as to whether he has committed further crimes.

Yesterday the police released an e-fit of the man they believe is responsible and have appealed for anyone who recognises him to make contact.

The two confirmed connected crimes happened on January 20 when a man indecently exposed himself and on May 22 when the same man grabbed a 19-year-old woman and dragged her into a driveway at the Richmond Hill end of Wimborne Road, before sexually assaulting her.

The victim, from Bournemouth, sustained scratches to her face and neck.

The offender is aged in his early to mid 20s, of a slim build, with a dark skin complexion and short dark curly hair.

At the time of the first incident, he was wearing a grey T-shirt with a gold arrow piercing through a large red shiny heart on the front. His belt had a distinct silver skull and crossbones buckle. He was also wearing a silver chain with a silver cross attached and distinctive diamond-studded earrings in both ears.

DI Steve Thorpe, of Bournemouth CID, said: “I am appealing for anyone who recognises this man, and anyone with any information about these two incidents, to contact me as soon as possible.”

He added: “Dorset Police treats all reports of sexual offences with the utmost concern and a dedicated team of specially trained officers have been investigating these distressing incidents.

“Following extensive enquiries, we can now confirm that an indecent exposure offence in January and a sexual assault in late May are connected. It may be that this man is also involved in other reported crimes. We are keeping an open mind, however it must be stressed that there is currently no clear indication any further offences are linked.”

He reminded residents and visitors to be conscious of their own personal safety and take a “common sense” approach.

Police have been carrying out additional patrols in the area.

DI Thorpe added: “Anyone with any information about any of these very upsetting incidents should not hesitate to call police urgently.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 01202 222222 quoting incident number 20:421, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.