POLICE have renewed their appeal for help from the public in tracking down a sex attacker who struck only hours into the New Year.

The incident took place in the car-park of the Little Wonder pub, in Ripon Road, Harrogate, in the early hours of January 1.

A 43-year-old woman left the pub at 12.30am to make her way home but as she walked across the car park, she says she was attacked by a man who pulled her to the ground from behind.

He then made a number of sexual comments to her and exposed himself, but she fought back and the man ran off towards Ripon Road.

She made her way to nearby Skipton Road where a family in a silver car stopped to see if she was okay. She did not get in their car and told them she did not want any help.

She was eventually found just before 2am back at the pub car park by a middle-aged couple who contacted the police.

Harrogate CID are appealing for witnesses to come forward, particularly the family in the silver car.

They also want to hear from anyone who might know the suspected attacker from the description the woman gave to the police.

He was described as about 5ft 6in, mid-20s, medium build, short dark hair with stubbly moustache. He was wearing a white T-shirt and jeans.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact police on 0845 60 60 247.