Ten attacks on women by same man

The attacker is targeting women and teenage girls in Hastings

Ten violent attacks on women and teenage girls in Hastings are being linked to one man.

Two of the attacks took place in the past seven days, and Sussex Police say they are linked. The first attack was in June 2007.

The attacker strikes between 2100 and 0300 and there appears to be no sexual motive and nothing is stolen.

Det Insp Paul Phelps said victims, aged between 16 and 33, needed treatment for cuts - some serious - and bruises.

All were attacked as they walked or cycled late at night, or in the early hours of the morning.

In the first attack last year, a 19-year-old cyclist was approached from behind and hit in the face, causing her to fall and suffer a cut cheek, a nose bleed, and a bruise to her eye.

He could be your husband, boyfriend, son or brother Det Insp Paul Phelps

The following nine attacks involved young women being approached by a man who either grabbed, punched or struck them on the head with a weapon.

After each attack, officers made searches and stopped and checked people nearby, and also made house-to-house inquiries.

Mr Phelps said: "We do not want to alarm women in the town but with five assaults this year linked to the same offender - two reported in the last week - young women need to be aware."

And he appealed to friends and relatives to contact police with any suspicions about possible suspects, adding: "He could be your husband, boyfriend, son or brother."

Police said the suddenness of the assaults led to varied descriptions of the suspect, but he is thought to be white, in his 20s or 30s, with brown or dark hair and of average height and build.

Mr Phelps said: "This man has acted quickly, suddenly appearing and striking out.

"We would appeal to anyone who has seen a man loitering in their area at night, or any suspicious activity, to call us."