A WOMAN was assaulted by a man in a North Yorkshire street - after saying she was not interested in speaking with him, police said.

Now North Yorkshire Police has released a CCTV image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident, which took place in Tower Street in Harrogate at 5.10pm on Wednesday, October 16.

“A man approached a woman and attempted to start a conversation. After she indicated that she was not interested, the man became verbally abusive and aggressive," said a police spokesperson. 

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Police say the woman lifted her phone and the man struck her hand before leaving.

The man is described as black, approximately 5ft 10in, with short dark hair and tattoos under his eyes. He spoke with an American accent. 

At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black hooded top, black thermal leggings, white shorts, and white training shoes.

If you recognise the man shown in the CCTV image, please contact North Yorkshire Police as he may have information that could assist their investigation.

You can email them directly at alan.mason@northyorkshire.police.uk, call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for Alan Mason, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111 or via their website.

Please reference incident number 12240189413 when providing any information.