TWO teenage girls were sexually assaulted in South Ham last Friday.

Police, who released details of the incident this afternoon, are now appealing for a dog walker to contact them.

The man, who was walking two or three white dogs in the South Ham area, is believed to be a vital witness that officers need to speak to.

The two teenagers were in the Paddock Road area between 8.30pm and 10.30pm on Friday, February 6, when they were sexually assaulted by a man not known to them. The offender is described as in his 60s and approximately 5ft 9ins tall.

The girls have told officers that they spoke to the dog walker after the incident and detectives would like to trace this man to see if he can help them with the investigation. He is not a suspect.

Since the incident was reported, extensive enquiries have been carried out, including house to house enquiries and reviewing CCTV in the area.

Detective Constable Ed Tyrie said: “I understand that there will be some concern within the local community about what has happened and that it is only now that we have provided details about this incident.

“Please be assured that since it was reported to us, we have been conducting significant enquiries in the area and have extra officers out on patrol.

“Key to this investigation is tracing the man walking his dogs that the two girls spoke to after the incident. We would urge this man to get in touch as soon as possible.

“If you can help, please get in touch."