Police are appealing for witnesses after a 22-year-old woman was attacked in Priory Close, Midsomer Norton, just after 1 a.m. last Saturday morning, (29th August).

The woman, who had been babysitting, was making her way home, but thought she was being followed from Somervale Way. The man is described as white, of average build, with short, dark hair. He was wearing blue jeans and a light-blue hooded top. Hearing a disturbance, neighbours intervened and he ran away. The woman was taken to hospital, but was able to leave that day.

This week, police released CCTV images of another woman they would like to speak to as a possible witness. They believe she may have spoken to the attacker prior to the incident. Anyone with any information or who was in the area, including that of the Esso Garage, in Church Lane, around that time last week should call 101 and quote the reference: 95135/15.

Many expressed their shock via social media over the weekend. A neighbour at Priory Close commented: “Parents, please do not let your child walk alone at night and girls, if you can’t get a lift or don’t have someone to walk home with, then please don’t do it. You may think it will not happen to you, but unfortunately you can never be sure.

“If you do think you are being followed, then call the police or an adult and state loudly you are being followed and no matter what the time, get to the nearest house and get inside. Please, if you know or saw anything, then call Avon and Somerset Police.”A 24 year-old man has since been arrested in connection with the attack and is being questioned by police. No charges have been made.