A 79 year old woman became the victim of a sexual assault on New Year’s morning. The pensioner was on her way to her local church in Bedminster at 10.30am, when the attack took place.

Despite taking place on East Street, one of the busiest roads in the area, the identity of the attacker remains unknown. Police acknowledge that the street may have been uncommonly quiet on New Year’s morning, but remain hopeful that people will eventually come forward with evidence.

Detective Inspector Steve Cartlidge, of Avon and Somerset police’s sexual offences unit, Operation Bluestone, said: ‘The offence took place on the morning of New Year’s Day, so it would not have been the busiest time, but I have no doubt that people would have been on East Street and may have seen what happened.’

The victim says she was just turning onto East Street when she became aware of someone behind her. The attacker is believed to be around 60 years old. According to Cartlidge, ‘The victim was not physically injured, but she is still very distressed and shocked by what happened.’ He added that an attack of this nature in broad daylight is extremely uncommon, particularly with a victim and attacker of these ages.

The offender has been described as white, with short, grey hair and a round face which was clean shaven. He was wearing a fawn-coloured rain mac and was last seen turning into Philip Street from East Street.

Police are appealing to witnesses to come forward as soon as possible.