A MAN has been arrested following a fourth sexual assault in Finchley as police investigations continue.

The man in his 30s was bailed after being arrested in connection with a spate of assaults that occurred on October 19, 23 and most recently on Friday, October 28.

A woman was walking in parkland close to The Avenue on Friday between 12.30pm and 12.50pm when an attacker approached her from behind, covered her mouth and touched her in a sexual manner.

An arrest was made following the attack and the man was bailed to return at the end of November.

Police continue to appeal to the public for information.

At Finchley Central and West Finchley Underground stations posters have been plastered on walls and ticket machines calling for public assistance to catch the culprit.

Staff at Finchley Central station said the posters had captured the attention of commuters.

Finchley resident Jenny Johnson, 23, of Queens Road, passes through Finchley Central daily and walks nearby side streets to get there.

“It is a bit scary because it’s so close to home. You have to be careful and try to keep in lit areas when you’re going home.”

Miss Johnson said such assaults were an unfortunate part of living in London.

“It happens everywhere. You think you’re a bit safer because it’s busy, but there’s always something to be wary of. You just have to be careful.”

One commuter, who preferred to remain anonymous, said she would consider driving to the station, so she did not have to walk home in the dark.

The attacks occurred in Essex Park, Clifton Road, Elm Park Road and Briar House Estate, near The Avenue.

The suspect has been described as having a tanned complexion, either dark-skinned European or Arabic, or light-skinned Asian in appearance.

He is believed to be in his mid 30s, 5' 8in to 6' tall, of slim build and smells of cigarette smoke.

He was wearing jeans with black formal type shoes and during the incident on October 28, he was wearing a T-shirt.

Anyone with information can call the incident room on 0208 733 5032 or anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.