A WOMAN has been sexually assaulted at one of the region's best-known hotels.

The woman in her early 30s was assaulted in a bedroom at Lumley Castle, near Chester-le-Street.

Detectives investigating the attack are appealing for information about the incident which took place on the night of March 17.

Enquiries have been underway since then and police are now appealing for any information on a man they wish to trace in connection with the incident who was seen in the area.

He is described as dark skinned, approximately 5ft 6ins to 5ft 8ins tall, of medium build with short, black hair at the sides and flipped back on the top.

He was aged in his mid-20s and was wearing a black bomber-style jacket, possibly with red and white colour and a dress shirt underneath.

Detective Constable Joanne Days said: “We understand this man was seen in the Front street area of Chester-le- Street on the night of the incident.

"We are keen to trace him and would ask anyone with information which could help our investigation to contact CID on 0191 3752309.”