A woman was sexually assaulted in Brighton and police are linking the incident with an earlier attack.
The most recent incident happened near the recycling bins in Upper Rock gardens at about 3.15am on Sunday 26 June and was reported to police on Wednesday (29 June).
Sussex Police said that the man may be the same person who carried out a similar attack on a 26-year-old woman on Wednesday 22 June.
In the latest attack the 36-year-old victim was initially approached by the suspect after she left the Ranelagh Arms pub as she walked up St James’s Street towards Upper Rock Gardens.
After engaging with the suspect for a few minutes she became uncomfortable and tried to get away.
But she was then taken to an area by the recycing bins in Upper Rock Gardens where the suspect tried to rape her before fleeing.
Detective Chief Inspector Nick Sloan said: “We are now investigating two very serious sexual assaults on women walking home late at night in the city centre.
“We believe the suspect who carried out the assault in Rock Gardens may well be the same offender who attacked a woman in the early hours of last Wednesday (22 June) between Eastern Road and Park Street in Brighton.
“The man featured in the CCTV may hold some vital clues to the investigation.
“If you recognise him or know where he lives please contact Sussex Police immediately.
“Both victims are receiving care from specially trained officers to help them through these terrible ordeals.
“Although I want women to continue to enjoy the wonderful nightlife that Brighton has to offer I do want to stress that it is important they are vigilant and remain safe.
“Do not walk about late at night on your own, make sure your family and friends know your whereabouts and make sure your mobile phone is fully charged or has credit.
“Do not hesitate to call 999 if you think you are being followed.
“Patrols will be stepped up over the weekend in the city.
“A dedicated team of officers are conducting house to house inquiries with local residents and businesses.
“CCTV from both crime scenes is being examined and forensic examinations are under way.
“We need the public’s help in finding this offender.
“I would like to appeal to people who were in St James’s Street and possibly saw the victim with the suspect outside a shop called Convenience Corner but did not realise at the time the seriousness of the situation.”
The suspect in both attacks is described as white, 5ft 6in to 5ft 8in tall, of stocky build and although he is believed to be living locally he speaks with a foreign accent.
On the night of the first attack he was wearing a white trilby style hat, black leather jacket, blue jeans and white trainers.
On Sunday the attacker was wearing blue jeans, black jacket and white trainers but no hat and had short dark hair.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police on 0845 6070999 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
