Police are searching for a key witness after a woman was reportedly assaulted next to a canal.

The incident happened at just after 5pm last Friday, along the Royal Military Canal, near Seabrook Road in Hythe.

It was reported a woman was attacked by a man known to her.

Officers attended and a 61-year-old man was later arrested on suspicion of assault.

He has since been bailed while an investigation continues.

Now, enquiries have suggested the victim spoke to a cyclist shortly after the incident, and police want to speak to the mystery witness.

A police spokesman said: “Officers are very keen to speak to him as he may have information to help the investigation.

“The cyclist is described as a white man, around 70 years old, wearing a red t-shirt.

“He was travelling along the canal path towards Hythe.”

The man, or anyone else with information, is urged to call 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/98351/24.