Two women were chased along Leyton and Hackney Marshes this week before one was subjected to an attempted sex attack.

Detectives in Waltham Forest are now appealing for further information over the incidents, and have one man in police custody.

A woman in her 30s was chased as she was running near the red bridge on Hackney Marsh on Wednesday.

Shortly before 10.15am the jogger noticed she was being followed and began to shout.

She managed to alert nearby people and the man left.

However, a second woman was struck over the head shortly afterwards near the riding centre in Lea Bridge Road.

After hitting the woman the man tried to take her clothes off.

The victim, in her 20s, managed to get away from the man and ran to a nearby address where police were called.

Detectives are linking both incidents due to the timing and location of the offences and as the suspect description in both incidents is similar.

The man is described as a black man, aged in his 30s with a tall build and riding a bike.

Detective Sergeant Jeremy McDermott, who is leading the investigation, said: "We are appealing for any witnesses, or anyone who recognises the description of the suspect, to call us. Any information they have could be of use to our investigation."

A 20-year-old man was arrested in nearby Blurton Road, E5 in connection with the incidents.

He was taken into custody at an east London police station where he currently remains.

Anyone that can assist police is asked to call detectives on 020 8217 7408 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.