A GROUP of youngsters who saw a teenage girl only minutes before she was sexually assaulted could hold crucial evidence, police said yesterday.

The 19-year-old was attacked near Westwood College, Scarborough, in the early hours of Friday morning.

Detectives investigating the attack are anxious to speak to members of a group of people who were spotted on security camera footage.

They believe the attack took place between 2.40am and 2.55am, but said there had been a limited response to appeals for information.

A group of youngsters is thought to have been walking from the town centre towards Valley Bridge at the time, and may have shouted to the victim prior to the attack.

The victim, who was said to be extremely shaken, was wearing a denim jacket, pink top and black skirt.

Anyone with information should contact police on (01723) 500300.