A SEX attacker struck twice within 10 minutes, indecently assaulting two women as they shopped.

A 49-year-old and a 53-year-old were targeted in separate incidents in Union Road, Oswaldtwistle, near the junction with John Street, on Monday afternoon.

They were approached by the man as they walked along the main road and he touched them both indecently before leaving the scene.

The first attack was at 5.10pm and the second at 5.20pm.

Detective Sergeant Ian Geogarty said: "The women were both shopping at the time on the main road in Oswaldtwistle. They were separate incidents but we believe they were carried out by the same man.

"It was a really busy area at a busy time and we are appealing for anyone who was in the vicinity and may have witnessed the incidents to come forward."

The attacker, who is in his early 20s, was described as about 5ft 8ins tall, of slim build with straight dark hair parted in the middle. He was wearing dark trousers and a V-neck cream jumper.

Anyone with information should contact Accrington CID on 353741 or Crimestoppers, free and in confidence, on 0800 555 111.