Police have issued CCTV images of three men as part of an investigation into the rape of a teenage girl and the sexual assault of a woman on Brighton beach.

Detectives from Sussex Police said the two victims – who are known to each other – were attacked at around 6am on Sunday 8 September.

The force said it happened in an area of the beach between the two piers, a distance of around half a mile.

No other details about the circumstances, nor their ages, have been released.

Officers said they are looking to identify three men who “may be able to assist” with their investigation.

Detective Sergeant Paul Heal said: “The two victims are being supported by specially trained officers while our thorough investigation continues.”

He added the police investigation has “multiple lines of enquiry” as it seeks to “ensure that those responsible are located and held accountable for their actions”.

Sussex Police have released three images from CCTV showing the three people they are trying to trace.

One man with a beard appears in the photo wearing a black hoodie with white lettering on the back; another also has a beard and what appears to be a dark-coloured gilet; and a third man is seen wearing a blue shirt and carrying a small dark-coloured shoulder bag.

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DS Heal added: “Patrols have been increased along Brighton seafront, and we are working with our partner agencies to support this enhanced presence.

“If you recognise these men, or have information to assist our investigation, we ask that you contact the police.”