A MAN has been arrested in connection with three sexual assaults last week, including an attack on 16-year-old girl.

On Friday, incidents were reported in Liden and Old Town, while details have also now emerged of a third incident, on September 2, during which a 22-year-old woman was approached by a man outside the New World restaurant in Victoria Road and sexually assaulted.

At around 5pm last Friday, a 21-year-old woman was walking between Liden Lagoon and Austin Crescent when she was approached by a man, who violently attacked her before sexually assaulting her.

Just four hours later, at around 9pm, a 16-year-old girl was grabbed from the street in Okus Road and sexually assaulted in an alleyway.

Yesterday, police confirmed a 38-year-old man from the town centre had been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and rape, although officers have not confirmed they are linking the incidents.

Supt Andrew Carr said increased patrols would continue.

“We have arrested a 38-year-old man from Swindon on suspicion of sexual assault and rape,” he said. “We are still open minded as to whether the assaults are linked and we are still appealing for witnesses and reminding people to be aware of their personal safety.

“Make sure someone knows where you are going when you leave the house, and what time you will be back, keep your mobile fully charged, and stay safe if you think you are being followed.

“Make sure you plan your journey and do not worry if you call and it is a false alarm.

“Increased patrols have been put in place in both locations during the weekend and will continue into the week. While we do have someone under arrest we still have a lot of work to do.”

Det Insp Lisa Clarke said: “Although we have made an arrest we are still keeping an open mind as to whether these incidents are linked.

“There may be members of the public who hold vital information that would assist us in these investigations and I would urge anyone with information to come forward.

“The serious sexual assault on September 4 was a particularly violent attack that has left a 21-year-old woman extremely distressed. Specialist sexual offences liaison officers are working with the victim to support her through this traumatic event.

“We ask that anyone who has information on the incidents, or who thinks they might know who may be responsible, to contact us immediately.”

Anyone with information should contact DS Liz Coles at Swindon CID on 101, or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111, where details may be left anonymously .

Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual assault can contact the New Swindon Sanctuary Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0808 168 0024 24 hours a day.