Woman knocked unconscious in daylight attack in Bournemouth
The victim was hit on the back of the head as she sat on a bench
A woman has been knocked unconscious after being hit over the head as she sat on a bench in Bournemouth town centre.
The victim in her 50s was sexually assaulted and robbed by a man opposite Boots in Commercial Road.
Police said the woman had left the Boots store at around 2.40pm on Friday 29 July and walked across the road, where she sat down on a bench opposite Boots.
While she was sitting there, she was struck on the back of the head by an unknown man and knocked unconscious.
The next thing she recalled was waking up at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital, having arrived there at 5.45pm.
The victim reported she had been sexually assaulted and her phone, bank card and other items had been stolen.
Detective Constable Evelyn Ahmadi, of Bournemouth CID, said: "We have launched a full investigation into this incident and have carried out a number of enquiries, including a review of available CCTV footage. We are also supporting the victim.
"I understand the area was busy on the afternoon, with a number of pedestrians in the vicinity, and I would urge anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity, or came across a woman in a distressed state, to please contact us.
"We understand reports of this nature can cause concern for the local community.
"Officers will be continuing to carry out enquiries in the area and can be approached by members of the public with information or concerns."