A woman was sexually assaulted during New Year celebrations in Epsom.

The victim was walking alone along West Hill between 1.30am and 2.30am when she was approached by a man who then sexually assaulted her.

It is understood the victim managed to hit her attacker with a stiletto before fleeing.

The suspect is described as a white man aged in his 50s or 60s and spoke with a deep London accent. He was wearing a dark tracksuit with a yellow or orange logo on the arm.

Detective Constable Tracy Maclean of Reigate CID, said: “When out and about on an evening I would urge anyone, no matter how short or safe the journey may seem, to not do it alone and to watch out for family and friends especially over this festive period.

“Think of alternatives to walking home, would ordering a licensed taxi be a better option? Or could someone you know and has not been drinking alcohol give you a lift or pick you up? And always make sure that someone else knows where you are going and what time you will be due home.”

Earlier that evening, at around 9.30pm, two teenage girls were walking along Chantilly Way and believed that they were being followed by a man and contacted police on arriving home safely.

Again, the suspect was described as wearing dark clothing and police believe the two incidents could be linked.

Officers are also keen to trace a woman who was in the Epsom area around 3.20am and who they believe may hold vital information.

The woman knocked on a door in Whitmores Close and was in a distressed state. She is described as in her late 20s to early 30s with pale skin and dark hair and Detectives would urge her to get in touch with Surrey Police on 0845 122 2222.