DETECTIVES are linking five incidents in which a pervert has accosted boys and young men across Clacton.

Police are investigating a new incident in Anchor Road, which resulted in a 20-year-old man being sexually assaulted.

Det Insp Leighton Hammett said officers believe all five incidents involve the same man. The victims are aged from 12 to 20.

“He has tried to engage them in conversation and acted inappropriately,” he said.

"This latest incident also represents an escalation in this man’s behaviour.

“Previously he has spoken to victims and tried to persuade them to accompany him.

“In this latest case he has grabbed the victim and pulled him into an alleyway off Anchor Road before sexually assaulting him.”

Police issued an e-fit image of the suspect on Monday.

Det Insp Hammett added that further police patrols are being carried out in the area to provide reassurance to the community.

"The victim in this most recent incident is 20 years old but he looks younger and it would appear the suspect is targeting teenage boys," he added.

Three men have so far been arrested in connection with the enquiry. Two have been released without charge and the other is currently on police bail pending further enquiries until November 23. Anyone with information is asked to call Essex Police on 101.

The five linked incidents:

• A 15-year-old boy was approached in Holland Road at 6.55pm on Saturday, September 20.

• Two 12-year-old boys were approached in Pathfields Road at 3pm on Saturday, September 27.

• A 14-year-old boy was approached at about 6.30pm near an alleyway off Dudley Road on Saturday, October 18.

• A 13-year-old boy was approached at 9pm in Coppins Road on Saturday, October 18.

• A 20-year-old man was approached at 8.30pm in Anchor Road on Sunday, October 26.