Police appeal after woman sexually assaulted in Jarrow

The incident took place around 1.20pm on Monday, November 20, when a man grabbed a woman by the waist while she was walking on the footpath next to the A19, near to Kirkstone Avenue in Jarrow.

The woman managed to break free and the man made off.He is described as white, around 5ft 9 to 6ft tall, aged between 25 and 35 and skinny build.

He was wearing a light blue Adidas tracksuit top made of silky tracksuit material with a hood, black wool gloves, light grey tracksuit bottoms and black Nike Air trainers.

He was also wearing a black beanie hat and a black wool thick scarf pulled up over his nose covering the lower part of his face.

He was described as smelling of cigarettes and bonfires.

Detectives are carrying out inquiries into the attack and believe it may be linked to other similar incidents in the area.

Extra officers are carrying out regular patrols.

Detective Inspector Sean McGuigan said: “We’re obviously very concerned about these incidents and believe they are linked which is why it is crucial we identify this man so he can be arrested and I’m asking for the public to help us in this.

“If anyone has any information that could help in our inquiries they we would urge them to get in contact with us.

“We will have extra officers in the area and would urge people to be vigilant, in particular on isolated paths.”

Anyone with information should contact Northumbria Police on 101 quoting reference 511 201117 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.