A woman was attacked on Hove seafront as late-night revellers passed just yards away.

Three men are believed to have been involved and one had a bicycle.

Police said the attack was serious and the 43-year-old woman was deeply upset. She is believed to live in the city.

Detectives want to trace anyone who was in the Grand Avenue and First Avenue areas between 10.30pm on Friday and 2am on Saturday.

They are particularly keen to hear from a man described as being of Middle Eastern origin, with a muscular build, dark, cropped hair, blue jeans, black slip-on shoes and a dark, short-sleeved shirt. He was in his 20s and about 6ft tall.

Inspector Ian Byford, of Sussex Police, said: "There were a number of people in the vicinity when the assault took place.

"Some were contacted and spoken to at the time, but if anyone hasn't come forward we would be grateful to hear from them."

Anyone with any information should contact DS Tim Nunn at Hove CID on 0845 6070999.