DETECTIVES investigating the rape of a schoolgirl in Dorchester have released CCTV of the suspect.

They are renewing their appeal for anyone with information to come forward and urged for local homeowners to check any CCTV footage they may have.

Dorset Police received a report at 9.57pm on Thursday, December 5, that a 15-year-old girl had been raped in the field at St Osmund’s School on Barnes Way. The incident occurred shortly after 9.22pm. The victim was walking along the field when it is reported she was approached from behind by a man – who was carrying a Swiss army-style knife – and forced onto the ground before being sexually assaulted.

Dorset Echo: Police have also released a map showing the designated area where detectives are asking residents with home CCTV systems to check their footagePolice have also released a map showing the designated area where detectives are asking residents with home CCTV systems to check their footage

The offender has been described as aged in his mid 20s to early 30s and was wearing a light grey Puffa-style jacket with the hood up, light coloured trousers and leather gloves.

Detectives from Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) have been carrying out extensive enquiries into the incident in recent days and local officers have been increasing patrols in the area.

Detective Inspector Wayne Seymour said: “We are continuing to support the victim in this case and I recognise this incident has also caused concern for the wider community in Dorchester.

“We are carrying out a thorough investigation in a bid to identify the man responsible and as part of these enquiries have obtained home CCTV footage believed to show the suspect in the area at the time of the offence.

“I appreciate the quality is not great but I am hoping it might help any witnesses who may have seen this man in the vicinity with their recollection. I would also like to use it as an opportunity to urge residents in the area to check their home CCTV between 6pm and 10.30pm on Thursday 5 December 2019. The attached map shows the area where we are urging residents to check their footage.

“I am also keen to hear from motorists who have relevant dashcam footage.

“We would like to thank members of the public who have come forward with information to assist our investigation so far and would urge anyone else who may be able to help to do the same.

“Our local officers continue to provide an additional presence in the area and can be approached by members of the community with any concerns.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55190191713. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.