Lone women are being targeted by a man exposing himself and asking if they want to have sex with him in Hampstead Heath.

Metropolitan Police say they are keeping an open mind, but detectives believe it could have been the same man behind a series of incidents reported on the southeast area of the heath.

There have been four similar reports made to police between June 6 and June 7.

The suspect is described as having tanned skin, with short brown hair, dark eyes, clean shaven, between 5”6-8 tall and aged around 25-35.

Since the reports, additional patrols are ongoing in the area and police have appealed for anyone who saw a man matching the description showing suspicious or concerning behaviour to contact officers.

Detective Inspector Joel Gregory from the central north serious sexual offences team said: “We understand this may be concerning to those who use the heath however I’d like to reassure the local community we have stepped up patrols and are working thoroughly to identify the person or persons responsible for these abhorrent offences.

“We have carried out extensive enquiries and two weeks on from the sexual assault I am asking anyone who was in the park this time last two weeks ago, to think back to if they saw a man acting suspiciously or matching the description.

“We are taking these offences extremely seriously but are keeping an open mind as to whether they were committed by the same man. It is imperative that he is identified but we need the public's help. Anyone who has information that they think can help us is urged to make contact immediately. We are also working closely with Camden Council who are supporting our investigation.

“Any form of violence against women is deeply concerning and we do not underestimate the seriousness of these offences.”

Anyone who has information that could help police should contact us online via met.police.uk or call 101 quote reference 7955/06JUN23. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.