Two reports of sexual assault in Whitley Bay have led police to release an image of a man they would like to identify.

An investigation was launched after Northumbria Police received a report that a 43-year-old woman had been approached by an unknown male on Hillheads Road. in Whitley Bay, around 1.00pm on July 23.

It was reported the woman stepped aside from the pathway for the man to pass and, as he did, he has attempted to touch her below the waist and grabbed her leg.

Then, about half an hour later, officers received a second report that a 22-year-old woman had also been approached by a man on Whitley Road, who then touched her on the bottom without consent, before leaving the area.

The Northern Echo: Northumbria Police would like to speak with this man in connection to the incidentNorthumbria Police would like to speak with this man in connection to the incident (Image: Northumbria Police/Facebook)

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Officers have carried out a number of inquiries so far, including a review of CCTV and speaking with witnesses, however, now the police are now appealing to the public for help.

Police have today (Monday, October 24) released the image of a man they would like to trace.

The Northern Echo:

He was in the area at the time of the incident and could have valuable information that can assist the ongoing investigation.

The man, or anyone who recognises him, is asked to contact Northumbria Police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the website or by calling 101 quoting crime number 098790N/22.

Alternatively, you can email 1703@northumbria.police.uk.

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