CCTV appeal to trace witness in connection with serious sexual offence

Detectives are issuing images of a witness we would like to speak to as part of a serious sexual offence investigation.
 
At around 12.15am on Sunday 14 April, a man and woman leaving a local establishment became separated in Lord Street, Southport. The witness pictured assisted the man to a bench outside the Bold Hotel, at around 12.45am.

The witness (pictured above) is described as white, wearing a black coat, a white t-shirt, black trousers and black and white Converse trainers. 
 
The woman subsequently reported that she had been victim of a serious sexual offence at a home in Southport. 
 
Following enquiries, a 25-year-old man from Southport was arrested on suspicion of rape. He remains on conditional bail.

 
D/C Harris said: “Although we realise that the images are not of the best quality, we hope the witness will recognise himself, and recollect his kindness. 
 
“A man remains under investigation but we are still piecing together the circumstances. For that reason, we need to speak to anyone else who saw the victim and her partner in the area, or who had any interactions with them in and around Lord Street from 12.15am onwards, either together, or once they had become separated.
 
“We are continuing to support the victim in this investigation, and would urge anyone with information to come forward.”
 
You can contact us @MerPolCC, 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 with reference 24000341335.