CRIME-FIGHTING charity Crimestoppers is offering a reward for information after a sexual assault in Clacton.

The attack, in which a young-looking 20-year-old man was accosted in Anchor Road at 8.30pm on Sunday, is being linked to a series of similar incidents across Clacton in recent weeks but shows an escalation in the perpetrator's behaviour.

Previously, the pervert had spoken to victims and tried to persuade them to accompany him, but in Anchor Road he grabbed the victim and pulled him into an alleyway before sexually assaulting him.

The other incidents in Clacton being linked to the attacker are:

• A 15-year-old boy was approached in Holland Road at 6.55pm on Saturday September 20.

• Two 12-year-old boys were approached in Pathfields Road at 3pm on Saturday September 27.

• A 14-year-old boy was approached at about 6.30pm near an alleyway off Dudley Road on Saturday October 18.

• A 13-year-old boy was approached at 9pm in Coppins Road on Saturday October 18.

The suspect is described as white, of stocky to chubby build, around 40 to 45 years old, 6ft to 6ft 2in tall, with grey and black stubble. He has stained teeth and a mole under his right eye.

He was wearing dark blue jeans, black casual shoes, a woollen black jacket which is thought to be Nike.

He also had a black beanie hat pulled down just above his eyebrows and smelled strongly of body odour.

Crimestoppers eastern regional manager Ann Scott said: This man needs to be found before these incidents escalate further.

“It’s also making the people of Clacton extremely nervous.

“You have nothing to fear by giving Crimestoppers information as we never ask for your name or take any personal details.

“We don’t record our calls and can’t trace calls or information given online. Those giving information won’t have to give a statement to police or go to court.

“You don’t even have to speak to someone if you don’t want to – you can give information online. It really is quick, safe and easy.

“If you recognize the person in this e-fit please contact Crimestoppers anonymously on our phone line of 0800 555 111 or via our secure online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org with your information.

“We don’t want to know who you are or where you are – just the name of this person in the efit”.

Anyone who provides information to Crimestoppers which leads to an arrest and charge can claim a reward of up to £1,000.