A woman on a late night bus service was 'repeatedly sexually assaulted' by a man who then tried to follow her home.

The victim was travelling home from Maidstone Chequers Bus Station on Saturday, November 19 when she was attacked.

She was approached at around 11pm by a man who started talking to her.

When she boarded the number 155 Arriva bus in the direction of Chatham, the man got on and sat next to her.

He put his arm around her and repeatedly sexually assaulted her.

When the victim got off the bus, the man followed her.

She saw someone she knew and asked for help, but the man was persistent that she should leave with him.

The woman then ran home and did not see him again.

Police are reviewing CCTV and checking forensic evidence in the wake of the attack, and an e-fit of the suspect has been produced with the help of the victim.

He is mixed-race, in his early 20s, around 6ft tall, with short black hair and a slim face.

The suspect was wearing a dark blue puffer jacket and black shoes, and had a London accent.

Detective Inspector Geoff Payne said: "We are particularly keen to speak to an older gentleman who got on and off the bus at the same time as the victim.

"The victim told us she sat next to this person and spoke to him, as she was trying to distance herself from the suspect.

"It is very important we also speak to the man who the victim went to for help when she got off the bus, and indeed anyone else who may have information."

If you can help, call 01622 604100, quoting reference YY/25938/16.

Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555111.