A 20-year-old man has been arrested after a woman of 27 was sexually assaulted and robbed in Trowbridge last night.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident which took place at about 10.50pm while the woman was walking along Bradford Road.

She was sexually assaulted by a man who had been walking towards her on the opposite side of the road.

Her mobile phone and cash were also stolen.

During the incident, the woman screamed, which led the man to walk off in the direction of Stallard Street and Wingfield Road.

At 11.40am, a man was arrested and remains in police custody at this time. Enquiries are continuing.

Detective Inspector Mark Power, of the Serious Crime Investigation team, who is leading the investigation, said: “Understandably this incident was very frightening for the victim and it has left her feeling extremely shaken up.

“We would like to hear from anybody who saw the incident or heard screaming to contact us immediately.

"We would also like to hear from anyone who saw a male acting suspiciously in the areas of Bradford Road, Wingfield Road, Stallard Street, or near the railway station between 9pm and 11pm on Thursday, April 30.

"Any information you have may play an important part in our investigation.

“I would like to reassure members of the Trowbridge community that we are carrying out a thorough and extensive investigation.

“I would also like to urge members of the public to be mindful when walking home at night.

"There are a number of precautions that you can take to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of such a crime:

• Always make sure that someone knows where you are going, who with and when you expect to return • Take a mobile phone with you to allow you to keep in contact.

• Try to make sure that you walk in groups, if you do walk alone be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

• Think about your route and try to stay in well lit, busy areas • If you see anything suspicious or are at all concerned don’t hesitate to contact police • If you feel that someone is following you, go to the nearest place where there are other people and call police.

• Consider carrying a personal attack alarm which are available from the Community Safety Department.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously if preferred.