Sexual assaults

Police are advising women to stick to well lit areas and try and avoid walking alone after two alleged sexual assaults in central Bristol within a short space of time on Monday 11th January.

Here are the full details from Avon and Somerset Police:

Police in Bristol are appealing for information following two instances of sexual assault, which occurred within a short space of one another on Unity Street and West Street on Monday, January 11.

The first incident occurred at around 9.20pm when the victim, a 33-year-old woman, was walking home from work along West Street in Bristol when she was approached from behind by an unknown male. It is then alleged that the man then sexually assaulted her.

Shortly after, the second victim, a 22-year-old woman, was walking down Unity Street, when she was also approached from behind by an unknown male who then allegedly sexually assaulted her. It's believed he then left the scene in the direction of Temple Gate and walked down an alley into Old Market.

At this stage its believed that these incidents are linked and in both cases the offender was described as a black male, around 19 years old, clean shaven with short black hair. He was believed to be wearing dark brown baggy jacket and light coloured trousers.

Detective Sergeant Lisa Jones said: "I can reassure the public that we are doing all we can to investigate these incidents. Fortunately incidents of stranger sexual assault are rare.

"When walking home I'd advise people to stick to well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings, in particular if you are walking alone. Wherever possible police advise people not to walk alone and if possible to take a registered taxi."

Anyone who has information in relation to these incidents or who may have witnessed them should contact Bristol police on 0845 456 7000. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org. They will never ask your name or trace your call.

Help and support is available for victims of rape and sexual assault in Avon and Somerset. Contact the Bridge on 0117 342 6999.