Seventy people called with information after a television appeal about sex attacks in Colchester and Chelmsford.

The three linked incidents featured on the BBC's Crimewatch UK programme and an e-fit of the suspect were shown.

Detectives working on the hunt for the attacker are now sifting through the information from the callers and hoping it will give the inquiry an extra boost.

Det Supt Gareth Wilson, who is leading the investigation, said: "With the coverage that the serious sexual assault has received in the media, especially local newspapers, we are hoping that somebody will be able to help us finally catch this man."

The first attack happened in Chelmsford at 5.30pm on Sunday, September 29, 2002.

A 30-year-old woman returning from a gym was assaulted as she walked along a footpath linking Waterhouse Lane and Seymour Street.

The second incident happened shortly after midnight on Thursday, October 10, 2002, on a footpath known as Bluebottle Grove in Lexden.

And the same attacker may also be responsible for a sexual assault on a 17-year-old girl, at 10.40am on Tuesday, December 10, 2002, on a footpath off Park Road, Lexden

Anyone with information should call the major investigations team in Stanway on 01206 762122 or Crimestoppers, anonymously,on 0800 555111

Published Friday, May 2, 2003

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