POLICE want to speak to this man after a woman was sexually assaulted in Hampshire.

The 45-year-old victim said she was walking through a covered pathway on St Mary's bridge, Portsmouth, when she heard footsteps approaching from behind.

A man then grabbed her by her left shoulder, spun her around, and touched the woman over her clothing before trying to put his hands into her trousers.

The woman stamped on his foot and ran off after the incident, which happened between midday and 1pm on Friday, December 2.

The attacker is described as being Asian and had a long black beard and smelled of alcohol.

He was wearing black, ripped tracksuit bottoms, a black coat, and a black woolly hat.

Investigating officer, DC Stephen Hill, said: “This type of incident is not common; we haven’t received any other reports of any similar incidents in the area.

“The woman, while unhurt, was understandably very shaken by this incident.

“We’re appealing for the public’s help to find the man responsible. Anyone who has any information, or recognises the man, is urged to call police.”  Anyone who has information on the incident is asked to call 101 and quote reference number 44160454412.