POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a 34-year-old woman was sexually assaulted in the town centre.

The incident happened in the area of Lincoln Street,at just after 11pm on Thursday evening.

The victim, from Swindon, was walking in the area when she was attacked and sexually assaulted by a man.

Following the assault the man ran off in the direction of Euclid Street.

The offender is described as white, aged in his early to mid twenties, of thin build with blonde or light coloured hair which was shaved or very short on the sides.

He was wearing a navy blue coloured puffa style jacket, black trousers and black shoes. He had an English accent and was wearing an earring in one ear.

The victim was extremely distressed and specialist Sexual Offences Liaison Officers are providing support.

DS Emma Barnett said: “This afternoon searches were carried out in the area and enhanced police patrols of the area will be in place this evening.

“Further activity will continue over the weekend as officers conduct their enquiries.

“I would like to appeal for anyone who has information regarding this incident or the identity of the man described to contact us.”

Police also issued advice on how people can stay safe when out and about: • Think about your safety before you leave home; make sure someone knows where you are going, who you are with and what time you are likely to return.

• Plan ahead; if you are catching a bus or train, what time does it leave and return, what will you do if you miss it or it is cancelled? And if travelling by taxi, always use a properly licensed firm and book ahead. On the return journey wait for the taxi driver to ask for you – don’t assume a car pulling up is your taxi.

• Fully charge your mobile phone and keep it with you so you can keep in contact with your friends and family and ring police should you need to.

• Try to stay with friends and don’t go off alone – don’t let any of your friends go off alone either. Look out for each other especially if one of you has drunk too much.

• If you have to walk alone, keep to busy well lit roads, even if it means taking a longer route.

• If you think someone is following you, go to the nearest place where there are people and ask for help, or, if you can’t find somewhere or you are worried in any way, ring 999.

• Don’t be afraid about being wrong or over-reacting; the Police would rather be called only to find that all is well, than be dealing with an incident because someone was afraid of calling them.

• Carrying a personal attack alarm is a good idea, day or night, especially if you are walking alone.

• Always try to be aware of what and who is around you and avoid putting yourself in a potentially dangerous situation.

Anyone with any information is requested to contact Swindon CID or alternatively can ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual assault can also contact the Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0808 168 0024 for confidential advice and support.