E-fit released after two sexual assaults

The first offence occurred between 12.10am and 2.20am on Monday, March 28.

A woman in her 40s left the Greenacres Tavern in Leys Road, Bennetts End and got into a dark-coloured Vauxhall Corsa, outside the pub. She was sexually assaulted by the driver in the car park behind the British Heart Foundation shop on Marlowes.

The Corsa is described as having a loud, prominent exhaust.

The offender is described as a white man, with a tanned complexion, believed to be in his late 20s or early 30s.

He had short shaved hair, was of slightly muscular build and had a round face which was clean shaven. He spoke with an accent which sounded Russian.

The second offence occurred between 2am and 4.30am on the same day, Monday, March 28.

A woman in her 20s was walking along Marlowes near to the health centre when she was approached by a man who sexually assaulted her.

The victim of this attack describes the suspect as a white man aged around 19 to 20 years of age.

He was of medium build and around 5ft 8 inches to 6ft tall. He was clean shaven, had blonde hair and was wearing a puffa jacket and hat.

Detective Inspector Sally Phillips, from the Sexual Offences Investigation Unit, said: “Understandably the victims have been left traumatised by what happened and are being supported by my officers.

“At this stage we are keeping an open mind as to whether these offences are linked and I would appeal to anyone who has any information about either of the offences to please contact me.

“I would be keen to hear from anyone drinking in the pub on the evening of March 27 and who saw the car and/or its driver to please contact me with information on 101.

“We would also like information from anyone who can connect a man with an Eastern European/Russian accent with a Corsa with a loud, prominent exhaust.

“Whilst patrols have been increased in the area to assist in reassuring the public, I would also urge woman to consider the following crime prevention advice.”

Police have issued the following safety advice in the wake of the attacks:

> Stick to busy and well-lit areas;

> Avoid short cuts through quiet, unlit, secluded or wooded areas and alleyways;

> Try to keep with friends rather than walk alone;

> Don’t speak to strangers;

> Stay alert;

> Don’t use headphones whilst walking or jogging because you may not be able to hear someone approaching;

> Make sure someone knows where you are going and tell them when you’ve arrived;

> If you believe someone is following you, go to the nearest busy place, such as a petrol station;

> Take a mobile phone with you if you have one.