NORTH Yorkshire police are urging women to be on their guard after a third sexual assault in the Northallerton area.

They're appealing for information after the latest attack when a woman in her 20's was assaulted from behind by an unknown man. It happened around 5pm on Mowbray road, on Friday January 22 and the man ran off down Turker Lane in the direction of Brompton Road.

The man is described as white, around 5ft 10in tall, slim build with a pale complexion. He was wearing a dark puffer jacket with a hoodie top with the hood up, and dark loose-fitting jogging bottoms. They have warned it's the third similar attack in recent weeks.

Sergeant Nick Hill, of Northallerton Police, said "These incidents are extremely distressing to the female victims concerned. They can be assured, along with the wider community, that North Yorkshire Police is determined to arrest and prosecute those responsible for these offences.

"I urge women walking in the area alone to be extremely vigilant and to be on the lookout for persons acting suspiciously. To maximise safety, walk with someone else if possible and stick to well-lit areas. Also consider having a personal alarm with you and a mobile phone, but please avoid prolonged use of electronic devices to enable you to remain alert to your surroundings.

"Anyone who has immediate concerns for their personal safety should contact police without delay by dialling 999."

Anyone with information is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for Katy Ditchburn or email katy.ditchburn@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.

On January 5 police said a female jogger was sexually assaulted in nearby Brompton road at 5.15pm. A man of a similar description, with a hooded top and a with a dark rucksack over his shoulder was reported to have run off down Byland Avenue.