A young woman has been sexually assaulted while walking her dog in Ayrshire, police have confirmed this evening.
Detectives say the sick attack was carried out yesterday afternoon in broad daylight near a fun fair on Irvine Moor.
The 21-year-old was was walking her chocolate brown Cockapoo dog near to the fun fair at Irvine Moor at around 1.15pm when she was approached by a man on a bicycle.
The attacker tried to engage the woman in conversation before he touched her inappropriately.
The suspect is described as being in his mid 20s to early 30s, between 5ft 5in and 5ft 6in tall and of slim build. He was wearing all dark clothing and was unshaven.
Following the assault, the suspect cycled off.
Detective Constable Janet Ferguson, of Saltcoats CID, said: "Although the woman did not require medical treatment, she was left very shaken by what has happened.
"Officers have been checking CCTV and carrying out enquiries in the surrounding area since this incident. We believe the area would have been quite busy with dog walkers and cyclists.
If you were cycling in the area at the time, please think back and get in touch with us police if you have any information which may be able to assist our investigation. I am also appealing to anyone who may have seen anything suspicious or a man matching this description to come forward."
Additional officers are patrolling the area to provide reassurance to local residents. If anyone has concerns they can approach these officers.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting reference number 1617 of Wednesday, 16 March, 2022. Alternatively, details can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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