THREE men have been arrested on suspicion of sexually assaulting a woman on the beach.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the woman reported being assaulted on Brighton beach, near Shelter Hall, in the early hours of February 12.

Three men - two aged 19, another aged 26 – were arrested shortly after on suspicion of sexual assault.

All three are on conditional bail while the investigation continues.

Investigator Rose Horan said: “We would like to speak to anybody who can help us investigate this disturbing incident.

“Several members of the public, including a man in a brown coat walking his dog, were seen walking past the scene and we are particularly keen to get in touch with them.

“This was a distressing assault on a vulnerable young woman, who is being supported by specialist officers, and while we have arrested three suspects, work is ongoing to establish the full circumstances.”

The incident happened shortly before 12.30am on Saturday, February 12.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police online or by calling 101, quoting serial 045 of 12/02.