A WOMAN was sexually assaulted while walking in Northallerton, police have revealed.

Officers are now appealing for witnesses following the report of a sexual assault on Wooden Hill Lane in Romanby, off Ainderby Road. The incident reported just after 7pm on August 13

The victim was walking along the lane near kennels at the back of the football field when a man walked past her and touched her sexually through her clothing.

Police are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time, and in particular are keen to speak to a man who stopped to talk to the victim before the incident happened.

Anyone who was in the Wooden Hill Lane area of Northallerton between 6.30pm and 7.15pm that day is asked to contact police on 101, select option two and ask for Northallerton Serious Crime Team. Or email neil.brodhurst@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk. To remain anonymous pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

*A 19-year-old man has been charged with sexual assault and appeared at Harrogate Magistrates’ Court on August 15. He has been remanded in custody to appear at Teesside Crown Court on September 11.