POLICE are hunting an attacker who assaulted two teenagers and tried to steal a mobile phone in Irvine.

Enquiries are continuing after two young women were targeted by a man in East Road at around 12.30am on Sunday, May 22.

The attacker pounced when two women, aged 17 and 18 were walking along East Road, when he approached and threatened them, demanding money.

The man then knocked the 18-year-old woman to the ground before running off towards Bank Street, empty handed.

The young women did not require medical treatment but have been left badly shaken by the incident.

The suspect is described as white, around 20 years old, thin with a gaunt appearance and short hair. He was wearing a blue tracksuit and spoke with a local accent.

Officers will be carrying out door-to- door enquiries and are appealing for any information.

Detective Sergeant Paul Richmond said: “Enquiries carried out so far have revealed that there was a man who was in the vicinity at the time of the incident.

"This man was dressed in dark or black clothing and I am appealing to him to contact us as he could provide additional detail on the suspect and the incident.

"If anyone has any information or knowledge, please do get in touch.

Anyone with information is asked to contact CID officers at Saltcoats Police Office on the non-emergency number, 101. Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where you can provide information without giving your name.