DETECTIVES have released new CCTV images of a man they believe could be a vital witness to a sex attack on Southampton Common.

A team of officers have been working on the case since a woman reported the incident on a path known as Lovers Walk, near Highfield Lane.

The 19-year-old victim was walking along the path when a man grabbed her from behind. He hit her several times and tried to drag her into nearby bushes. The man walked off when they were approached by a passer-by.

The victim has told the Daily Echo that she feels "a deep sense of fear" since the attack.

The new CCTV stills show a man wearing a black T-shirt and jeans and carrying a black jacket in his left hand.

Det Sgt Rob Parkinson said: "We are releasing these CCTV images as we think the man shown in them may be a vital witness.

"We hope he may recognise himself, or someone who knows him may do.

"If anyone does know who he is, I would ask them to contact the Operation Darby team at Hulse Road."

Police have previously issued an e-fit image of the man responsible for the attack.

He is described as being of Middle Eastern or Mediterranean appearance, aged between 19 and 25, about 5ft 7in, with a small mouth and a straight nose. He wore dark clothing.

Det Sgt Parkinson added: "We're also still keen to hear from anyone else who may have seen the assault or seen a man acting suspiciously in the area around the time of the attack."