AN ALLEGED sexual assault of a student walking home is being investigated by police.

The incident occurred in College Lane in Chichester at about 11.30pm on Wednesday, September 22.

Police say a 19-year-old woman was grabbed by a man near the entrance of Chichester University.

He dragged her into a wooded area on the edge of Oaklands Park where he sexually assaulted her.

Police said the woman’s screams drew the attention of a man walking past and the suspect fled across the park.

The Argus: The incident occurred in College Lane in Chichester at about 11.30pm on Wednesday, September 22The incident occurred in College Lane in Chichester at about 11.30pm on Wednesday, September 22

The suspect is white, in his twenties, 6 foot 2 and has short hair.

The woman is being supported by specially trained officers.

District Commander Chief Inspector Jon Carter said this is an “isolated though very serious incident”.

“There have been no similar such reports in the area recently,” he said.

"We have increased police presence in the area, and the investigation team are working hard to identify the person responsible.

"In addition, students are being reminded of the sensible precautions everyone can continue to take to help keep themselves safe, but the same advice is equally applicable to everyone working and living in the area, regardless of occupation.”

He added: "We are also working with many partners locally to tackle the issue of violence against women."

Detective Sergeant Amanda Zinyama, of the West Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit, said police are appealing for witnesses who may have been in the area at the time.

"We particularly need to trace the man who heard the victim’s screams and came to her aid,” she said.

“He walked with her to the college nearby but then left without giving his contact details.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact police online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Memphis.