Woman targeted with unknown powder in Cheltenham double attack

The first incident happened on Gloucester Road near the junction with Alston Lane

A woman had an unknown powder thrown into her face while another was almost pushed into traffic in a double attack in Cheltenham, police have said.

The incidents happened on 8 January in Gloucester Road at around 09:40 GMT and Granley Road at around 10:40 GMT.

Officers believe the same man was responsible for both attacks, and he was unknown to the women.

The woman targeted with powder received hospital treatment to her eye. Police have appealed for witnesses.

In the first incident, a woman was walking when the man approached and threw the powder at her. He then walked off in the direction of St George's Road.

An hour later, the man is believed to have tried to push another woman off the pavement and into oncoming traffic.

The woman was able to stop herself from falling into the road before he walked away.

Officers said she was left uninjured but was badly shaken by the incident.

Gloucestershire Police said the man is described as white, in his 40s, about 5ft 8in in height, and of medium build.

He had brown, scruffy hair which was wrapped in a purple scarf that tucked into his jacket at the back, and was wearing dark clothing.

Police have urged anyone with information or footage to get in touch.