A CHARITY that helps victims of sexual and domestic abuse has supported calls for the public to take extra care following a spate of sexual assaults in York.

Three women have reported being sexually assaulted in the last week, and three men have been arrested in connection with the assaults.

Superintendent Adam Thomson, the Neighbourhood Policing Commander for York and Selby, said on Wednesday that two sexual assaults which took place in Navigation Road and James Street within 48 hours of each other were possibly linked, and advised people not to walk alone at night.

He said: "While York is generally a very safe place to live and visit, this is a timely reminder for everybody, not just women, to follow basic safety advice by avoiding walking alone at night. We ask everybody to keep safe by walking in groups and to be vigilant of any suspicious behaviour."

Sarah Hill, CEO of the Independent Domestic Abuse Service, said it was vital for people to take extra care as the nights became darker, and reminded the public that support was available to anyone who had experienced sexual or domestic abuse.

She said: "Like everyone else I am really worried to hear about the recent sexual assaults in York and hope that the women involved are getting all the support and advice available. I also agree with the police that we all need to be more vigilant.

"For many women, walking alone at night is a practical part of their day to day routine and not something that can easily be altered particularly as it is now becoming dark at 7pm. Sexual assaults can and do happen to both men and women and, although public assaults are rare in the city, we must all be take extra care and be prepared to report suspicious behaviour straight away."

Sarah also said the public had a responsibility to report anything suspicious or

She said: "We would also make a plea for people to act if they do see someone in distress and, where it is safe to do so, to offer help or to get someone else who can help."

Anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault can call the Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 01904 669 339 or IDAS on 03000 110 110.

If you see a sexual assault or abuse taking place, always phone 999.

*A man arrested in connection with the incidents in James Street and Navigation Road has been released under investigation. Two men arrested over a serious sexual assault in Marygate have also been released under investigation.