A MAN 'inappropriately touched teenage girls’ who were in and out of the water on Bournemouth beach. 

Police received reports of a man inappropriately touching teenage girls on the beach near to the West Beach lifeguard tower last month. 

Following enquiries, a 26-year-old man from London was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault. He has been released on police bail as investigative work continues. 

Police are appealing for witnesses to the reported sexual assaults, which happened at around 2.45pm on Saturday, August 19, to come forward. 

Dorset Echo: Bournemouth beach

Police Constable Alexandra Donnelly, of Bournemouth police, said: “We have been continuing to investigate this matter and a suspect has been arrested in connection with these incidents. 

“Following further enquiries, we have obtained additional information and I am now in a position to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. 

“I appreciate this was some time ago, but I would urge anyone who was on the beach that day who witnessed any suspicious activity or who may have captured any relevant mobile phone footage to please contact us. 

“We understand that the man reportedly involved was part of a larger group at the beach and I am particularly keen to speak to any members of this group who can assist with our enquiries.” 

Local officers continue to carry out regular proactive patrols of the beach and surrounding area, working with partners as part of the force’s summer policing operation to provide a visible presence in the vicinity to tackle reported crime and anti-social behaviour. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230131195.  

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.