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

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

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

She was physically and then sexually assaulted.

After the attack, the man ran off.

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

He has ginger hair and was wearing dark jogging bottoms and 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.”

Det Sgt Coles said officers were keeping an open mind on whether the incident was linked to the later attack, in Okus Road.

She said: “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 Arm-strong 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 seriously and measures are being taken including extra patrols in the area.

“While 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, 24 hours a day.