Man held over Glasgow sex attacks Published duration 23 December 2011

image caption The attacks took place on James Watt Street in the centre of Glasgow

A 21-year-old man has been arrested in connection with two serious sexual assaults in Glasgow.

A 20-year-old woman was sexually assaulted at about 04:00 on Wednesday and 15 minutes later a woman aged 22 was raped.

Police had earlier released CCTV footage in a bid to catch the man who carried out the attacks in James Watt Street, close to Broomielaw.

It is expected the arrested man will appear in court on Monday.

The first attack happened when the woman was dragged into a car park on the street, which is in a business district to the west of the city centre.

The second attack took place just 15 minutes later on the access ramp to an underground car park across the road from the first incident.

The victim of the second attack was helped by a passing delivery driver who drove her to where police were dealing with the first victim.

Divisional Commander of Glasgow City Centre and West Division, Ch Supt Val Thomson said: "Increased patrols will continue in the city centre throughout the festive period in response to the increased number of people socialising within the area.

"Our commitment remains to keep people safe whilst they enjoy the city and I hope that the swift arrest in relation to this matter assures people that we make every effort to do so."

She added: "People should come into the city and relax and enjoy themselves but I would also urge them to continue to take the basic steps to ensure their own safety.