A man has been charged with sexual assault after reports that a woman was touched inappropriately in St Albans.

She was walking along Victoria Street at around 9pm on Saturday, March 12, when a man allegedly touched her before a member of the public came to her aid.

Police have said they believe it may be linked to a second incident where three women were also confronted by a man in Victoria Street/ Chequer Street at around 8.55pm.

Detective Adam Haines said: “This was understandably a frightening ordeal for the victim, but I would like to reassure the public that we have arrested and charged a man in connection with the report.

“A thorough investigation is underway and we are keen to trace any witnesses or anyone with information to get in touch.

"We’re particularly keen to hear from the Good Samaritan who assisted the victim. Are you this man? Please get in touch if so."

He added: "We also believe there may have been a second incident that may be linked where a group of three women were also confronted by a man in Victoria Street/Chequer Street at around 8.55pm.

"They may have important information that could assist us as well as another member of the public who chased a man down Victoria Street."

Anyone driving in the area with dashcam footage has also been urged to check.

Information can be reported via 101 quoting reference 41/20285/22.

Raj Patel, 43, of Ladies Grove in St Albans, has been charged with sexual assault.

He has been remanded in custody and will appear at Stevenage Magistrates’ Court on 29 April.