A teenage girl was raped near tennis courts by the border of Brighton and Hove early today (Tuesday 15 February).
Police are investigating the attack on the 17-year-old girl by an unknown man in Dyke Road Park, Hove, at around 12.30am.
She was walking northwards up Dyke Road near the Booth Museum.
The victim was grabbed from behind and dragged across the road into Dyke Road Park where she was raped.
After the attack she ran to the nearby Tesco Express and called the police.
The suspect is described as a stockily built olive-skinned man in his thirties, with short dark hair, sideburns and slight facial hair.
He had what sounded like a European accent, possibly French or Italian.
Detective Inspector Steve Warner said: “This was a frightening attack on a woman walking home after a night out.
“The victim is with specially trained officers and receiving help and support.
“We have cordoned off the area while forensic examinations are carried out and patrols of the area have been increased.
“Attacks of this nature are rare but I would like to remind women to take personal safety advice and be vigilant when walking alone, especially at night.”
Sussex Police appealed for witnesses, or anyone with information, to call 0845 6070999 or to contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
