Two assaults in Bideford could be connected say Police

Police in North Devon are appealing for witnesses following two assaults early on New Year’s Day.

Police are investigating two assaults that occurred on two separate women between 12.30am and 1.30am on Tuesday 1st January 2013 in the Bideford area.

In the first incident a 17yr old female was assaulted on The Quay next to “Radfords” Tobacconists. 

The victim fortunately managed to push the male suspect off and run away and didn’t sustain any injury.

Many people would have been around the location at this time celebrating the New Year and may have seen the incident.

The second incident occurred in the proximity of Station Hill, Torrington Lane within East the Water. A 65 year old woman was assaulted from behind whilst walking home from the town and further assaulted whilst she was on the ground.

She only sustained minor injuries as a result of the assault.

There is no description of the offender (s) at present but investigating officers are looking into the possibility that both incidents are linked.

Both attacks were totally unprovoked and due to the festivities at that time many people would have been around.

Police are appealing to members of the public to contact them with any information, however insignificant they feel it may be.

If you saw anything that may assist the investigation, then please contact Devon & Cornwall Police on 101 quoting police reference CD/12/20 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report online at www.Crimestoppers-uk.org