POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a suspected assault in Peebles last Saturday.
A 41-year-old woman was making her way to a family member’s house in Northgate at around 12.45am when her top was grabbed from behind by a man at a footpath near Tesco store on Dovecot Road.
A struggle ensued and during this time the victim screamed loudly and struck out at her attacker before fleeing to her relative’s home and thereafter contacting police.
The suspect is described as white, in his late thirties, around 5ft 10ins tall with a gaunt and unkempt appearance.
He had a prominent sunken scar below his right eye, patch facial hair and short dark-coloured greying hair with a significantly receding hairline. He was wearing a navy blue zipper jacket.
As a result of the struggle, the woman was taken to hospital for treatment to a wrist injury.
Detectives are investigating whether this incident is linked to an assault, which took place at a shop on Peebles High Street at around 4.40pm on Tuesday, November 13.
The attack saw a 52-year-old woman working within the store grabbed and forced against a wall by a man who entered the shop.
The victim fought the suspect off and he fled from the premises.
Officers are now keen to speak with anyone who can assist with their enquiries into either incident.
Detective Inspector Jim Morrison said: “For both of these women this was a terrifying experience and fortunately they were able to fight their attackers off.
“We are conducting various lines of local enquiries to determine whether the same male was responsible for both of these incidents and would urge anyone with information to come forward.
“A high-visibility police presence will be out within Peebles to offer reassurance to the community and engage with local residents who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in the areas where these attacks took place.
“We would urge anyone who can help us trace those responsible for these assaults to contact police immediately.”
Those with information can contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or the charity Crimestoppers in complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.