A MAN was pushed to the ground and raped at the seafront.

The 20-year-old victim says he was approached and spoken to by his attacker at Dukes Mound in Brighton between 5am and 7am on Saturday.

He managed to escape from the suspect before running home.

Police have appealed for any witnesses who may have seen a white man in his late 20s or early 30s, 5ft 8ins, with a small wart or spot on his right cheek.

He wore a dark grey hooded top with light grey speckles, blue jeans, and grey Nike trainers.

Detective Inspector Emma Vickers said: "We are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed this or have any information about the suspect to contact us.

"The victim is being supported by specially trained officers."

Anyone with information is asked to report it online to Sussex Police or call 101 and quote reference 289 of 03/11.

For help and support for victims of rape or serious sexual assaults visit www.sussex.police.uk/rasso.