A teenage girl was raped on school playing fields after she was attacked by a man carrying a Swiss Army-style knife, police say.
The 15-year-old was walking near St Osmund's Church of England Middle School in Dorchester, Dorset, when she was approached from behind by a man who was carrying the weapon.
She was then forced onto the ground and sexually assaulted, police say.
Dorset Police are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward following the attack at around 9.20pm on Thursday, December 5.
The man is described as having been wearing a light grey Puffa-style jacket with the hood up as well as light trousers and leather gloves, reports Somerset Live.
A cordon was put in place at the crime scene while police have launched an investigation.
Detective Inspector Wayne Seymour, of Dorset Police's major crime investigation team, said: “This was an extremely frightening incident for the victim and she is being supported by specially-trained officers.
“I am appealing to anyone who was in the area around the time of the incident and saw or heard anything suspicious to please contact us.
“I appreciate that this incident may cause some concern for members of the community, but I would like to reassure them that a full and thorough investigation is underway to identify the man responsible.
“Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team will be carrying out increased patrols in the area and can be approached with any concerns.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police on 101 and quote reference number 55190191713 or call crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.