A MAN has been arrested by detectives in connection with a sexual assault investigation.

A woman was sexually assaulted at the junction of Marlpost Road and Two Mile Ash Road in Southwater, near Horsham, at about 7.20am on Tuesday.

She had been out running when she was pushed to the ground and sexually assaulted by a man.

Her attacker ran away when a member of the public walked past, and the victim was taken to hospital.

She has since been discharged, and is being supported by specialist officers.

Her attacker was riding a bicycle and was wearing brown trousers with a distinctive red tartan padded jacket .

A 29-year-old local man has been arrested in connection with the incident, and he remains in custody for interview and further enquiries.

Detective Inspector David Grover of the West Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit said; “We believe this to have been an isolated incident, and an intensive investigation is still ongoing.

“We are still keen to hear from anyone with information so if you witnessed the assault, recognise the description of the suspect or have information to assist the police investigation, please report online or call 101 quoting reference Operation Morning.”