A MAN has been arrested by police officers investigating reports of two women being sexually assaulted in Grays.

The incidents happened between 4.30pm and 6.45pm in London Road on Saturday (16 July). In both instances, it was reported a man approached the victim and grabbed them.

A 33 year-old man from Aveley has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and is held in custody.

Detective Inspector Tracey Golding said: "I know these incidents will cause concern, but officers worked quickly to make an arrest less than an hour after the second incident.

"I believe this area would have been busy at the time of the alleged assaults and I need anyone who was in the area and saw anything, or has any information, to come forward.

"In particular we want to identify a woman in a colourful dress walking a dog and a woman with dark hair and wearing glasses.

"If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us. Please quote the crime reference number 42/186893/22.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm. Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively you can call us on 101. In an emergency always call 999.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."

The man arrested was later named as Leonard Scamp, 33, of Love Lane, Aveley who was charged with two counts of sexual assault.

He appeared at Southend Magistrates' Court yesterday (Monday, 18 July) where Thurrock Nub News understands he ws released on bail.