DETECTIVES investigating a serious sexual assault in a city centre are appealing for two potential witnesses to come forward.

A woman in her early 20s was subjected to a serious sexual assault by a man just after 1.30am on Monday, March 3, near Skeldergate Bridge, not far from Clifford’s Tower in York.

A 23-year-old man arrested in connection with the assault remains on bail while police enquiries continue.

Officers believe two men who were in the area at the time may hold some vital information. They are believed to have been in the Coney Street area at about 1am on Monday, before walking past The Slug and Lettuce to Kings Staith by the River Ouse and past the St Georges Field Car Park.

The first man is described as white, about 6ft tall, wearing a dark hat with writing on the front and a hooded, military–style jacket. The second man was slightly shorter, had short, dark hair and wore a dark, waist-length jacket, lighter coloured shirt and dark, smart shoes.

Detective Chief Inspector Allan Harder, of the Major Crime Unit, said: “If you match the description of either of the witnesses, I urge you to come forward straight away as you may have vital information which could help this investigation".

Anyone who can help officers with this enquiry should call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for York CID. Alternatively, information can be emailed to MajorCrimeUnit@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.

Or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 5551111, quoting reference number 12140034199.