A woman aged in her early 20s has been seriously sexually assaulted in an early morning attack in Belfast city centre.

The woman was waiting for a lift in Rosemary Street at around 3.30am this morning when she was attacked.

When her friend arrived on the scene he chased away her attacker in the direction of Royal Avenue.

He is described as a black male who was wearing a black top, white jeans and a black baseball cap with white trim.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact detectives at the Rape Crime Unit on the non-emergency number 101.

Anonymous information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Belfast Telegraph