TWO women were assaulted, one in a serious sexual attack, across Swindon yesterday in two incidents which may be linked.

Wiltshire Police is appealing for witnesses to both incidents, which took place between 5pm and 9pm in Liden and Old Town respectively.

At approximately 5pm, a 21-year-old Swindon woman was walking in the area between Liden Lagoon and Austen Crescent.

She was physically and then sexually assaulted. After the attack, the man ran off.

The offender is described as white. He is of slim to medium build and aged in his late twenties or early thirties.

He has ginger hair. He was wearing dark jogging bottoms, a white and grey hooded top.

Detective Sergeant Liz Coles said: “This was a serious attack and we have a team of officers working on the investigation.

“The victim is extremely distressed and is being supported by our specialist sexual offences liaison officers.

“The scene will remain cordoned off whilst officers conduct enquiries and we thank the community for their understanding regarding any disruption.

“A second scene in Okus Road is also under investigation in relation to a separate incident in which a young woman was assaulted at approximately 9pm the same evening.

“We are thoroughly investigating and are keeping an open mind as to whether the incidents are linked.

“The public can help us to identity this man, we ask that anyone who has information on the incidents or who thinks they might know who the man is, contacts us immediately.

“We can easily eliminate people from the investigation so there is no need to be concerned about identifying the wrong person.”

Superintendent Charlie Armstrong said: “The community may notice increased activity in these areas as officers carry out important enquiries such as house to house and analysis of CCTV.

“We are taking the reports very seriously and public safety is our priority, measures are being taken including extra patrols in the area.

“Whilst we do not wish to alarm the public it is vital that anyone who has information contacts us and that people are vigilant and mindful of their personal safety.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact DS Coles at Swindon CID on 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers 0800 555 111, where details may be left anonymously if preferred.

Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual assault can contact the New Swindon Sanctuary Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) on 0808 168 0024. This helpline is available 24 hours a day.