A WOMAN has been sexually assaulted whilst she was having a cigarette in Southampton.

On Saturday at around 11.57pm, the 21-year-old was stood on Vernon Walk opposite the Trilogy nightclub when an unknown man approached her.

The man is then said to have put his arm around her waist and grasped her buttock over her clothing.

A group of five people then intervened and the man let go.

A 34-year-old man from Portsmouth has now been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and fraud by false representation.

He has been questioned by officers and released on police bail with conditions.

Officers are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.

The unknown man is described as being black, approximately 5ft 11inches tall and of muscular build and was wearing a long sleeved white shirt and a red cap that was on backwards.

Police particularly want to talk to the group of people who intervened and helped the woman.

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson said: "Were you in the queue for Trilogy nightclub at around midnight? Did you see what happened? Were you one of the group who helped the woman?

"Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information is asked to contact us on 101 quoting 44210294294.

"Alternatively people can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously or online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/"