A LATE-NIGHT sexual assault on a woman in her 20s has led to an increase in police patrols in the city centre.

Police are seeking witnesses after the woman was sexually assaulted by a man in Meeting House Lane in The Lanes area of Brighton.

The incident occurred just after midnight on Friday, October 8.

Police say the man had followed the woman in her 20s for a short distance from North Street.

After the attack, the man then ran off towards Brighton Square.

The man is described as Asian in appearance, in his thirties, with short brown hair.

Detective Sergeant Jo Benton said: "We are carrying out an intensive investigation and are currently following several lines of enquiry.

“The victim is being offered support by specially trained officers and at present this appears to be an isolated incident with no link to any other offences.

"We are also increasing patrols in the area and anyone with concerns about their safety can talk to the officers at any time. If you do see something suspicious happening, then dial 999 right away.

"If you were in the area of North Street and the Lanes late on Thursday night, into Friday morning, and saw any suspicious activity, please get in touch with us.”

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