DETECTIVES are hunting a bald, muscular black man in connection with the rape of a teenager.

The 18-year-old victim has told officers he was pulled on to Brighton beach and attacked after being followed.

The teenager was  was walking eastwards towards Brighton Marina when he was dragged on to the beach near the Volks Railway between 1.30am and 2.30am on Friday and raped.

He is being supported by specially trained officers.

Detectives say their suspect is black, aged in his 40s or 50s, of muscular build, bald and was wearing a black hooded top.

He ran off towards the Marina.

Detective Sergeant Vickie Maroki said: "We are appealing for any witnesses who may have seen this happening or have any information to get in touch with us."

Anyone with information should contact Sussex Police via the eform at sussex.police.uk/contact-us/response-to-appeal/ or call 101, quoting Operation Byworth.