Updated: POLICE are hunting a man who terrified a woman by grabbing her in York city centre in the early hours of the morning.

The attack took place at 1am as the woman, who is in her 40s, was walking near to College Yard which is between the Cross Keys pub in Goodramgate and the Minster on Sunday, April 19 – but information about it has only just been released by the police.

The man grabbed the woman’s arm and tried to pull her away but fortunately a couple walking near by intervened and the man ran off.

The victim, who is from Blackpool suffered some bruising to her arm and was left shocked by the incident but was otherwise unharmed.

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police said the woman had been left shaken by the assault.

He said: “This was a frightening incident for the woman and we need to get to the bottom of it as soon as possible.”

Police are now appealing for the man and woman who intervened to come forward as they believe they may have vital information which could help the investigation.

They are also asking for other witnesses or anyone else who has information regarding the assault to come forward.

Investigating officers have looked at CCTV footage but have been unable to identify the man responsible.

But he is described as Asian, possibly of Turkish origin, aged from his mid-20s to early 30s, about 5ft 10ins tall and with dark hair. He was wearing a black jacket with a pale t-shirt underneath.

Anyone who can help the investigation should phone PC Cheryl Hunter, of the York Safer Neighbourhood Team, on 0845 6060 247, quoting the reference number 12090065549. Alternatively, information can also be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111. Although the attack came only a month after the disappearance of Claudia Lawrence, police have ruled out any possibility that the incidents are linked.