A TEENAGER has been sexually assaulted by a man who offered her a lift home.

The 15-year-old girl was walking home along Ringwood Road, Eastbourne, when she was approached by a man in a car who suggested she get into the vehicle for a lift home.

She refused and sought the help of a tall man, accompanied by a young boy in pyjamas and walking a puppy, who advised her not to get into the car and to call police before continuing on his way.

Police say the suspect parked his car and continued to pester the girl before attempting to embrace and fondle her.

She managed to break free and run home.

The incident happened at around 9.30pm on Sunday, 1 May.

Officers also want to trace a woman who may have spoken to the suspect driver in the early hours of the following day, Bank Holiday Monday, 2 May.

It is believed that at around 4am he talked to her after stopping his car in South Street, Eastbourne.

She is described as a white woman in her late teens or early 20s, 5' 5", of slim build and with long dark hair.

She was wearing a black top or jacket, and quite distinctive white ‘shiny’ trousers with black patches on them. She was also carrying a large black handbag.

Detective Constable Dan Thomson, of East Sussex CID, said: "House-to-house enquiries have failed to identify the man from whom the girl sought help but I would like to trace him as a potential witness.

"The boy he was with was around eight years old and was wearing pyjamas. They had a young dog with them.

"I’m also keen to trace the young lady. It's not known whether or not she lives in South Street She may not have thought that anything about her exchange with the suspect was unusual, but she may still be a key witness. I’d encourage her, or anyone who recognises her description, to get in touch."

Anyone able to help is asked to contact Sussex Police by email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting serial 1510 of May 1.

Alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org

A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and bailed until June pending further enquiries.