A MAN suffered a serious sexual assault while walking home from the city centre in the early hours.

Police are appealing for witnesses following the “serious sexual assault” as well as a group of around five men “acting suspiciously” in Fort Royal Park on Sunday morning to come forward.

The reported incident happened between 3am and 4am in Fort Royal Park when a man in his 20s was attacked on his way home.

Detective Sergeant Dan Fenn said: "The victim received several injuries including a head wound for which he received medical treatment by paramedics.

"We are providing close support to him and his family from specially trained officers.

"While incidents like this are extremely rare, extra patrols are in the area today supporting and reassuring the local community and an investigation is underway to find these men and bring them to justice."

Anyone with any information that could help police with their enquiries is asked to call 101 quoting incident number 163s of September 22.

Alternatively, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Sexual assault victims can receive support from the free Victim Advice Line via victimadviceline.org.uk