Police are now linking two attempted rapes which took place a week apart in Shoreham.

Both victims, women from the town, were approached by a man who tried to tear at their clothes.

An 18-year-old was assaulted as she walked past an area known locally as The Ham, alongside the main Brighton road and Eastern Avenue, on February 2 at 3am.

The second woman, aged 26, was approached by a man on February 9 at 10.15pm, as she approached the junction of Gordon Road and Rosslyn Avenue.

Both women were able to break free. Neither was seriously injured but both were shocked and upset.

Detective Inspector Graham Pratt said: "I believe there is an opportunist element to these attacks and I am sure there are people who witnessed them.

"It might be a driver saw something they put down to being an argument between a couple. I would ask that any witnesses contact us."

The man was 6ft, of well-built and strong. Anyone with information is asked to call Mr Pratt on 0845 6070999.