A 27-year-old Worthing man has been arrested and bailed after women reported being sexually assaulted on the promenade during the 5 November fireworks. Police want a third woman to come forward.

A 27-year-old man from Worthing has been arrested after women reported being sexually assaulted on Worthing promenade during the town’s Bonfire Night fireworks.

Sussex Police said the man was arrested in connection with the incidents. He has been bailed while enquiries continue.

The force is now appealing for any other victims to come forward.

What the police said

The assaults happened on the promenade during the annual fireworks display on Thursday 5 November. The force’s statement gives these details:

  • the incidents happened between 5pm and 6.50pm, when the promenade was “extremely busy with spectators”
  • two women have come forward so far
  • both reported being “inappropriately touched over their clothing”
  • both have been supported by specialist officers
  • a third woman was seen being assaulted, and police want her to get in touch

An arrest is not a charge. No one has been charged in connection with the incidents.

How to contact the police

Anyone with information can report it online through the Sussex Police website or call 101.

Quote crime reference 47260253730.

What it means for you

If you were on the seafront that evening and something happened to you, or you saw something, the police want to hear from you. That applies even if it seemed minor at the time or you did not report it on the night. The force has asked the third woman in particular to make contact.

If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

The display was the free Worthing Lions fireworks, let off from the end of Worthing Pier at 7.30pm. Our Worthing fireworks page carries the details of the event.

We will update this story if the police give more information.