Cops release CCTV of a man after a young girl was sexually assaulted on the bus amid an urgent search for an attacker

Cops have released CCTV footage of a man they want to speak to after a young girl was sexually assaulted on a bus.

Northumbria Police have launched an urgent investigation after reports a teenager was sexually assaulted in Newcastle city center.

Emergency services received a report that a youth had boarded the number 30 bus on John Dobson Street in Newcastle city center sometime between 9.30pm and 9.45pm on Friday, January 26.

While she was on the bus, a man unknown to the teenager sat next to her and touched her without permission.

The perpetrator then tried to block the victim’s exit before she managed to get off the bus.

An investigation into the incident has been launched and a number of investigations have been carried out.

The man police would like to speak to was in the area at the time the crime is said to have taken place.

Officials believe he could help them with their investigation.

The man, or anyone who knows him, should use the report page on the Northumbria Police website or call 101 quoting crime reference number 010498C/24.