THIS is the face of a serial attacker preying on Southampton students. Detectives were today hoping this artist's impression will help generate new leads.

Police believe the man is behind five assaults on women near Southampton University last week. As reported in later editions of yesterday's Daily Echo, the artist's sketch is thought to be a good likeness to the attacker. Detectives are investigating five incidents, which all occurred in Glen Eyre Road, Bassett, between Wednesday and Friday last week.

Det Insp Nigel Oliver, of Bitterne CID, leading the investigation, said: "This was prepared by an artist from an account given by one witness but we are hoping that it may trigger some recognition in somebody.

"She believes this is a good likeness, and we urge anybody who thinks they do recognise him, or has seen a man who looks like this in the area, to call us as soon as possible so that we can find him and prevent this from happening again."

The attacker is described as white, aged 35 to 50, medium to well-built, with black hair and a round face with protruding eyes.

He wore a blue coat, probably quilted-style, and during one incident had a black or grey "beanie" hat. Police are continuing high visibility patrols in the university campus area, and house-to house inquiries are on-going.

Student safety advice has been issued to women at the campus, and officers continue to liase with university officials and students. Anyone who recognises the artist's impression or has any information about the identity of the attacker is urged to call Bitterne CID on 0845 045 4545 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.