POLICE in York are warning women to be vigilant because they fear a sick sex attacker may strike again.

Officers are warning woman to take extra care when they go out at night because the man who carried out two serious sexual assaults in York last weekend is still on the loose, as they revealed they had increased police patrols in the area.

One week after that double attack near Micklegate, the Evening Press teamed up with officers to try to find the pervert responsible.

Police worked throughout last night, showing revellers an e-fit of the suspect, and quizzing people for information.

Posters were also put up on Evening Press billboards at Ouse Bridge, North Street gardens and the junction of Trinity Lane and Micklegate. Police have dubbed the hunt Operation Crake.

Detective Sergeant Steve Taylor, of York CID, appealed for help from members of the public.

He said: "We are putting a lot of our resources into this because we don't want it to happen again.

"But the nature of the crime means there must somebody strange out there who committed it.

"There is nothing to suggest that he won't do it again.

"We urge women not to walk home on their own.

"They should get taxis or have someone pick them up. We are asking people to be sensible, and be extra vigilant."

The attacker is described as white, in his late 20s or early 30s, between 5ft 8ins and 5ft 10ins and of medium, but strong, build.

He has a shaved head and was wearing jeans or trousers, a dark top and a light fleece.

The first assault happened in Trinity Lane, shortly before 10.45pm on February 24.

The attacker grappled with the victim and threatened violence before forcing her into an alleyway and subjecting her to a serious sexual assault.

Police believe he may have been disturbed by passers-by. He ran off towards Bishophill.

The second attack happened at about midnight.

A woman was crossing Ouse Bridge towards Micklegate when a man accosted her.

He grabbed her arms, led her down an alleyway beside Argos, forced her down a path to the Riverside garden next to North Street, then sexually assaulted her.

She fought him off and he fled towards Bridge Street.

Both women were said to be traumatised, but not physically hurt.

Drinkers shocked by attacks

DRINKERS in the area last night were shocked by the attacks.

Alice Young, 24, of Holgate, York, said: "Obviously as a young, single woman that's pretty horrific to hear. It's really worrying.

"I think people perceive York as being a safe place, because it's a small, pretty tourist town. But I think nowhere is really safe."

Police said revellers had been helpful and co-operative. PC Sarah Trow, who was on duty at the riverside gardens said: "We have had a positive response. Some people have been taking the number down, and most have been happy to stop."

PC Kevin Flintoft, at Trinity Lane, said one couple staying at a local guest house had recognised the e-fit as a man they had seen in town.

Detective Sergeant Steve Taylor, of York CID, said: "The nature of the crime means there must be somebody strange out there who committed it.

"There is nothing to suggest that he won't do it again. We urge women not to walk home on their own. They should get taxis or have someone pick them up."

A man arrested last Sunday over the attacks was released without charge. Anyone with information should phone 0845 6060247.

Updated: 09:08 Saturday, March 04, 2006