AN investigation has been launched after a young girl was 'sexually assaulted' in north Dorset.

Police have released an image of the suspect and are appealing for anyone with information to come forward. 

On Tuesday February 23 it is reported that a 16-year-old girl was walking her dog on the North Dorset Trailway between Blandford and Stourpaine when a man made conversation as he walked past her.

They had a brief conversation, before he began to make inappropriate comments. The man reportedly shook the victim’s hand to say goodbye and as she attempted to pull away, he grabbed her wrist and pulled her hand down to touch his crotch area.

The man, who is described as being approximately 35 years old and five feet six inches tall, walked away following the incident in the direction of Blandford.

A man has now come forward and is assiting police with their enquiries.

Police Constable Richard Cooke, of Blandford police, said: “This incident understandably left the victim feeling stunned at what had happened and we are carrying out a number of enquiries to identify the man involved.

“I am issuing an image of the suspect and would appeal to anyone who may recognise him from his clothing to please get in touch.

“I am also keen to speak to a woman who was walking a dog along the North Dorset Trailway at the time of the incident and walked past both the suspect and the victim as she may have important information to assist my enquiries.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210030875.

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.