POLICE are hunting a serial sex attacker after a series of assaults on women and girls, including one as young as 12.

Officers are investigating a number of reports of women begin sexually assaulted in Southampton city centre, as well as in Lordshill and Millbrook.

A force spokesman said detectives were “tentatively” linking 12 reports of sexual assaults together that started around January 18 and have escalated over the past three days.

Due to the assaults police have increased their patrols in the areas they took place, although police declined to say where exactly the sexual assaults took place.

The attacks mainly happened in the early hours before light when people where on their way to work or school, although some happened during the day and in the early evening.

The women targeted were aged between 12 and 43 and were reportedly sexually assaulted through their clothes by a man on a bike.

None of them were injured however they were all left shocked.

The man is believed to cycle alongside lone females who are on foot and then touch them briefly as he cycles past.

He is described as white, and wearing a hi-visibility, fluorescent yellow jacket, possibly with the hood up and riding a black bike, thought to be a mountain bike.

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Rob Heath said: “We are conducting extensive inquiries to identify this man and we are urging anyone who may have seen a person matching this description in the Southampton area to contact us.

“This man has been reported to be carrying out these crimes in several areas of Southampton at various times of the day.

“Often this has been in darkness, such as early in the morning or early in the evening, however we have received reports of this happening during daylight hours also.

“I would like to reassure the public that we have increased patrols in these areas and that we are actively investigating each incident in order to identify this person.

“We would like people to be alert to their own personal safety, but not alarmed.

“I am urging anyone who sees a man matching this description to get in contact and call 999. Alternatively, if you have information to assist us with this investigation call 101 and quote 44160042313.”

Police tell women to be 'mindful' when walking alone

Hampshire police have advised women to be mindful of personal safety when they are walking alone.

They have also said to use well lit, busy areas and keep your phone on you and that if you can, walk with a friend.

They said to be aware but not alarmed and report anything suspicious.