WILTSHIRE Police is re-appealing for witnesses following a serious sexual assault which took place in the town centre on February 21.

A 23-year-old woman was sexually assaulted by a male outside the Debenhams store on Fleming Way shortly after 3am following a night out with friends in the town centre.

Following the assault, her attacker ran away from the scene.

The assault took place in the doorway outside Debenhams opposite the Number 17 bus stop on Fleming Way.

Detective Sergeant Phil Walker from Swindon CID said: “Firstly, I would like to commend the bravery that the victim in this incident has shown by coming forward and reporting this crime straight away.

“I would like to appeal to anyone who may have been in the location of Fleming Way or The Parade any time between 2.50am and 3.30am on Friday, February 21.

“The smallest piece of information might prove vital to us apprehending the suspect in this case.

“I would also like to reassure the wider community that a robust police investigation is well under way and Wiltshire Police will do all it can to locate the perpetrator and bring them to justice.

“Anyone with any information, no matter how insignificant they may think it is, should contact us immediately.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.

Any victim of a sexual assault can seek support and counselling from the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) based at the New Swindon Sanctuary, The Gables, Shrivenham Road.

The SARC is a dedicated centre offering support to any victim of a sexual assault where trained professionals can provide immediate medical care and treatment, a forensic examination, counselling and onward referral to other necessary services.

The SARC offers a 24-hour helpline on 0808 168 0024 or go to www.newswindonsanctuary.co.uk