Police release CCTV of a man after two assaults in Deepdale

Police want to speak to this man in connection with the two incidents

A picture and video footage of a man has been released by police in connection with two assaults in Preston in a short space of time.

Preston Police say a 16-year-old girl was walking in Meadow Street between 10.10pm and 10.15pm on Tuesday (27 November).

She was approached by a man close to the Catherine Beckett Community Centre and was sexually assaulted.

Shortly after 10pm on the same night, police received reports a 19-year-old woman had been approached and pushed to the ground in the car park of Home Bargains in Deepdale Road. She was able to run off.

Police have already appealed for witnesses to the sexual assault in Meadow Street, as it was shortly after the end of Preston North End’s draw with Middlesbrough FC at Deepdale.

Detective Constable Liz Sheard of Preston CID said: “Following extensive enquiries, we believe the two incidents are linked.

“A number of people were in the area around the time following the end of the Preston North End and Middlesbrough match.

“We want to speak to the pictured man as part of our investigation. If you saw anything or recognise this man, please get in contact with us immediately.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log 1406 of November 27.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.