AN abusive cyclist is terrorising lone women in the town centre.

Police believe the same man is behind a number of reports of women being insulted and spat at as they walk through town.

None of the victims have been physically hurt but officers say it is a frightening experience.

The latest incident was at 8am on Wednesday outside Edwards bar in Fleet Street.

The woman was heading from the Railway Village towards the bus station.

When she reached the bar she saw a man cycling towards her, pushing another bike as he rode through the town.

Town centre community beat officer PC Andy Alexander said: "He stopped as he approached her and spat on the floor at her feet.

"He then started to verbally abuse her for no apparent reason, shouting at her as she walked away."

With the shops and pubs closed so early in the morning the victim had nowhere to hide.

PC Alexander said: "This lady was obviously terrified by this unprovoked attack and made off from him as quick as she could.

"This guy has been about the town for a while and I have heard that he is doing this.

"He doesn't actually touch anybody, but it's not right. This woman was very frightened."

As well as any witnesses to this attack, police are also keen to hear from anyone else who has been a victim of the man.

"I know for a fact that somebody else has had this happen and I have had reports of other women being abused like this for no reason at all," PC Alexander said.

"There were people about, so hopefully one of them will come forward as a witness."

Officers are keen to speak to a woman who was also on a bike in the Fleet Street area at about 8am on Wednesday who may be able to help.

The suspect is white, in his 20s, and police describe him as having a dirty' appearance. He is unshaven, about 5ft 8ins tall and of slim build.

He was wearing dark clothing with a hooded top and large sunglasses.

Anyone with information should call PC Alexander at Swindon police on 0845 408 7000 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.