TEENAGER RAPED ON BEACH

Police are appealing for witnesses in relation to the attack which took place in the early hours of Sunday on the beach opposite Sturdee Place and George Street in Hastings.

An 18-year-old local girl left a local nightclub in company with a man. The two walked towards the beach where the woman was attacked by the man.

The man is described as being in his late teens or early twenties. He was about 5 feet 10 inches tall, wearing a dark top. He was also wearing dark jeans.

Detective Inspector Trevor Bowles, who is leading the hunt for the attacker said: "This was a dreadful attack on an innocent young woman. She had enjoyed an evening out, but was then subjected to a horrifying ordeal.

"I have a number of detectives working on this case. We are liasing closely with our colleagues in the Forensic Science Service in order that the identity of the offender can be quickly established."

He continued: "I would urge anyone who saw anything suspicious or indeed, who knows the identity of the offender to contact us. The public will want this man caught as soon as we do, and I need anyone with information on this incident to contact Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999 or anonymously, on 0800 555 111."