AN image of a man sought over a sexual assault on a girl has been issued by police.

The artist’s impression is a likeness of a suspect in a recent incident of exposure and sexual touching in Newcastle.

A 12-year-old girl was walking near to Pallinsburn Court, on Etal Lane, when she was approached by a man at about 5pm on Thursday, October 16.

He is said to have exposed himself, before putting his arm around the girl and carrying out the sexual assault.

The frightened youngster immediately ran off and informed her parents, who contacted the police.

Investigating officers said the man responsible is thought to be in his 20s, around 5ft 10in, and was wearing a black hooded jacket, dark jeans and dark glasses at the time of the incident.

The artist’s impression is based on the description given by the victim working with the investigation team.

Police hope to identify the man and speak to him, as it is believed he may have information to assist their inquiries.

Superintendent Debbie Ford said: “We need people look at the image and contact us straight away if they have an idea of who he might be.

“We treat all information that is passed to us in the strictest confidence and once we receive information we will always act on it.”

Supt Ford added: “This is obviously a concerning incident.

“The victim was left extremely distressed and it’s important that we trace this man as soon as possible.

“We have extra officers in the area around where the offence took place and I want to reassure the public that we are doing all we can to identify and locate the man responsible.”

Officers strongly believe that, due to the nature of the offence, the location and the description of the suspect, the incident is linked to a similar unsolved two-year-old offence.

A man exposed himself before performing a sex act in front of a group of girls aged 12 to 15, close to an underpass with West Denton Way, at 5.45pm on Wednesday, October 17, 2012.

The scene of that incident, near a Jaguar garage, is only 200 metres from the location of the latest offence.

Anyone recognising the man or with information about either incident, or any similar activity, are urged to contact the Northumbria force on 101, extension 69191, quoting reference number 951 161014.

Callers can also contact the Crimestoppers freephone line, anonymously, on 0800-555111.