Sexual assault in Bournemouth

Police in Bournemouth are appealing for witnesses and information from the public after a woman was seriously sexually assaulted and injured by a man in an unprovoked attack in the town.
 
The incident took place at approximately 2am on Sunday, 12 July 2009, in an area of Bournemouth Gardens just next to Westover Road.
 
The victim, a 26-year-old woman from Southbourne, was seriously sexually assaulted and punched in the face and head.
 
She suffered bruising and swelling to her face and was taken by ambulance to Poole Hospital, where she was treated for her injuries and released later in the day.
 
Officers are appealing for witnesses and anyone with any information about the incident, or who may have seen the victim with a man during the early hours of Sunday, 12 July 2009 to get in touch urgently.
 
The victim was wearing a nurse's blue and white fancy dress outfit, with a white nurse's hat, having attended a fancy dress party with friends.
 
Detective Inspector Craig Travers, of Bournemouth CID, said: “The victim left a nightclub in Exeter Road alone at approximately 1.40am and made her way through Bournemouth Square and up Westover Road to get a taxi home.
 
“She was wearing quite distinctive clothing and if anyone saw her walking through Bournemouth Square and along Westover Road I need them to get in touch.
 
“We are keen to trace a man who is described as being of Asian appearance, aged between 30 and 35-years-old, of medium build with short dark hair. He was wearing blue jeans, a dark coloured tracksuit top, and white trainers.
 
“The man approached the victim on Westover Road, outside the Brasshouse nightclub and was seen to cross over the road with the victim towards Bournemouth Gardens.
 
“If anyone saw the man in this area or saw him with a woman I need to speak with them urgently.
 
“This was a nasty and unprovoked attack which has left the victim injured and shocked and I'd urge anyone else who has any other information about this incident, or about the man responsible, to call the police immediately.”
 
Areas of Bournemouth Gardens have been cordoned off while forensic officers carry out an examination.
 
Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 01202 or 01305 22 22 22 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.