A series of sex attacks in a quiet Oxford neighbourhood have shocked residents and sparked a police man-hunt.

Oxford police are still seeking a man who seriously sexually assaulted a 56-year-old woman at her home in Florence Park last Saturday afternoon.

The incident has been linked with two other attacks in the last five months, all in the same area of the city.

In each case the victims were older women and the man forced his way into their homes after they answered the door.

Police have warned residents to be vigilant.

Mohammed Riasat, owner of Park Store on Florence Park Road, said: "People are scared and worried.

"It is a nice area and they are asking why it has happened here."

Mayoress and councillor for Cowley, Beryl Keen, said she thought the attacks were terrible.

She said: "It is disgusting that this should happen here. Things are getting worse."

Mrs Keen advised people to be wary of visitors during the day and in the evening.

Christine Sankey, 62, from Littlemore, a regular visitor to Florence Park, said she did not usually answer the door if she was not expecting somebody, but added: "I'm not as cautious as I should be, you never think it will be your turn."

People in the area said they were also concerned about being attacked in the street, and were especially wary of walking through Florence Park itself.

Police are anxious to speak to anyone who may have information about the attacks and they are also keen for anyone with knowledge of similar incidents to come forward.

The attacker is described as white with a swarthy complexion and a chubby face, aged between 18 and 22 years, around 5ft 9in tall and of large build, with short black, or dark brown, hair.

The man in the most recent attack is described as being distinctively dressed in expensive designer clothes, including a pair of blue jeans and a red and white baseball jacket.

The jeans may have been the Evisu brand with a cream pocket on the left-hand side and an 'M' logo on the right.

Police described the attacker as walking with slouched shoulders and dragging his feet.

Anyone with information should call Oxford CID on 08458 505505, or call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111.