Police have released CCTV footage in the hope the public can help identify a man in connection with a serious sexual assault in Covent Garden.
Detectives from the Metropolitan Police's Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command unit are investigating the incident which took place in Bracknell Street in London.
They wish to speak to the man seen running near the scene after a young woman was befriended and then allegedly attacked in the early hours of June 26.
At around 1.20am the 24-year-old victim became separated from friends during the Pride in London celebrations and the police say a man became aggressive towards her then sexually assaulted her.
The woman fought back and the offender ran off, police said. CCTV captured a man matching his description running in the direction of High Holborn a short time later.
The man is described as white, with tanned skin, aged between 30 and 40-years-old, 5ft 11ins tall with dark hair.
He spoke with a strong middle eastern accent and was seen wearing a distinctive camouflage tracksuit.
Detective Constable Ben Lucas, who is carrying out the investigation, said: "I am really keen to identify and trace this man so we can progress our enquiries and bring the perpetrator to justice.
“The victim had been out with friends celebrating Pride in London. This should have been a happy day but instead she found herself the victim of an appalling sexual assault which has left her frightened and traumatised.
"If you know this man please get in touch with us."
Anyone with any information is asked to contact police via 101 quoting reference MetCU 217567or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
