Horror as girl, 16, 'sexually assaulted' while queuing at popular city shopping centre

A teenage girl was reportedly sexually assaulted at a popular city shopping centre. The 16-year-old was queuing inside a store when she was allegedly attacked earlier this year.

Police said the reported sexual assault took place in the Jordanthorpe Centre, in Sheffield, at around 6.35pm on July 23. Investigating officers have now released a CCTV image of a man they would like to identify. South Yorkshire Police said they believe the man can "help us with our investigation".

The man is described as Asian, with black hair and facial hair. He is believed to be in his late 30s, of an average build, and around 5ft 5ins tall.

The force are now appealing for anyone with information to come forward. They are urging anyone who might know the man or who witnesses the reported incident to get in touch as soon as possible.

A spokesman for South Yorkshire Police said: "We have released a CCTV image of a man following a reported sexual offence in a shop in the Jordanthorpe area of Sheffield.

"It is reported that at 6.35pm on Wednesday 23 July, a 16-year-old girl was sexually assaulted while she stood in the queue for the till at a shop in the Jordanthorpe Centre.

"Following numerous enquiries, we are now releasing a CCTV image of a man we would like to speak to as we believe they may be able to help us with our investigation.

"He is described as Asian, with black hair and facial hair, in his late 30s, of an average build, and around 5ft 5ins tall. Do you recognise this man?"

The force added: "If you can help, you can pass information to police online or by calling 101. Please quote investigation number 14/130637/25 when you get in touch. You can also contact police online via their reporting portal.

"Alternatively, if you prefer not to give your personal details, you can stay anonymous and pass on what you know by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers. Call their UK Contact Centre on freephone 0800 555 111 or complete a simple and secure anonymous online form on the Crimestoppers website."