Man arrested for alleged sexual assault of girl on Bournemouth beach

A 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of sexually abusing a teenager on Bournemouth beach.

The girl was on the beach near Bournemouth Pier at 8pm on Friday evening when she was allegedly attacked.

The incident was reported to police officers on patrol in the area and the suspect was arrested soon after.

The alleged attack led to a confrontation between two groups of youths at Pier Approach; additional police officers were called to investigate the incident.

A Dorset Police spokesman said the man arrested was later released on bail.

He said: “Officers – who received the report directly as they were on foot patrol in the immediate area – responded and it was reported that a man had sexually assaulted a young girl through inappropriate touching.

“Officers were in the area as part of their increased patrols in Bournemouth town centre and beach. We will continue to work with our partners to ensure a visible presence in the area.

“The police will cooperate with the public and are accessible to anyone with information or concerns.”

No arrests were made during the riots that followed.