Police are investigating two sexual assaults after women claimed they were sexually assaulted by taxi drivers in Stevenage and Hitchin.

A 21-year-old woman was allegedly sexually assaulted by the driver of a silver taxi after being picked up from Market Place in Hitchin and dropped off in Letchworth between 2.30am and 4am on Sunday, March 20.

In a second assault police believe is linked, a 33-year-old woman got into a taxi near The Drapers Arms pub in Stevenage High Street between 12.05am and 12.20am on Saturday, March 19, and was allegedly sexually assaulted by the driver during the journey.

Det Con Kirsty Rusbridge, from the Herts police sexual offences investigation team, said: “I fully appreciate that these incidents will, understandably, cause concern and I would like to reassure people that a full investigation is under way.

“I would appeal to anyone who may have any information which could assist our enquiries to please come forward.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to remind people to remain vigilant when out and about. Keep the number of a reputable taxi firm saved in your phone and try and pre-book to ensure that the driver is genuine. Avoid travelling alone if possible and make sure that the driver has a valid taxi license on display.”

Anyone with information should contact DC Rusbridge on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.