A SEX attacker who indecently assaulted a woman on her way to work in Accrington could strike again, police warned today.

Officers urged women to be on their guard as they released an artist's impression of the man they are trying to catch,.

Detective Sergeant Nigel Watson said: "We don't want to cause anyone to panic, but there is always a concern that he will do it again.

"It is important that women in the area are aware of their personal safety. When walking alone they should stick to well-lit, main routes, not quiet areas.

"They should also be aware of their surroundings."

The attack happened in Ormerod Street, near the Globe Centre, at 7am on Tuesday, January 24.

The 56-year-old victim was walking to work when she was approached by an Asian man, aged 18 to 25, who tried to start a conversation with her.

He then pushed her over a low wall opposite the Globe Centre car park before jumping on top of her and carrying out an indecent assault.

Police said the incident could have been even more serious, had the offender not been disturbed by a passer-by, who saw the attack and shouted over.

The man, who was wearing a grey or beige hooded jacket with a logo on the front and no zip, two T-shirts and dark jeans, fled the scene in the direction of Brown Street.

He is said to be around 5ft 10ins tall, slim but with broad shoulders.

He had a lot of stubble around his face and a distinctive hooked nose.

DS Watson said that since the first appeal for information several women had come forward who think they may have been approached by the same man.

He said: "We have had a number of other ladies come forward who he has not attacked, but who he has unnerved. We are following a number lines of inquiry, but we are still appealing for information from the public.

"The picture is an artist's impression of what the witness can remember and it may jog someone's memory."

Anyone with information or who recognises the man in the picture is asked to contact Accrington CID on 01254 353741 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.