A WOMAN has spoke of her shock after two sex attacks happened in her area in rapid succession.

Two young women have been sexually assaulted in Kirkintilloch within the past month.

Gillian Renwick, a councillor for the area, said: “As a woman, I can speak to the fact there is always an inherent concern about walking alone after it gets dark, and you learn from a young age to take general precautions - but nothing prepares you for anything like this.

“When the first attack happened two weeks ago there was shock across the board that something so brutal happened in Kirkintilloch.”

She added that the fear of crime is greater than the reality of risk but welcomed an increased police presence in the area following the sick attacks.

A 20-year-old woman was sexually assaulted on the canal between Cowgate and Hillhead Road on Friday, April 30. Less than two weeks later, a 14-year-old girl was targeted at the nearby Merkland Nature Reserve.

Ms Renwick added: “Senior police officers have been in contact with local councillors close to the scenes of crime, and have sought to assure us that they’re not related as far as their investigations have shown at that time.”

“I certainly have found the canal path, and other local parks and walking routes to be busy enough to feel safe while walking my dog, but my heart breaks for the young women who were just going about their lives in what should have been safe for them to do.

“Like a lot of women I walk with my keys in my hand and my phone ready in case I need to be on the phone talking to someone if I see someone and don’t like the way they’re acting, and this and other safety measures have been discussed across the media in light of the tragic murders of Sarah Everard and Julia James.”

It’s understood police do not think the attacks are linked but are keeping an open mind.

The two incidents are “absolute priorities” for local cops, said Local Area Commander, Chief Inspector John Menzies.

He added: “Dedicated investigations involving specialist officers are under way.

“There have been increased patrols in the area in recent weeks and these will continue over the weekend. Anyone with information in connection with the incidents is asked to contact police on 101 or email us at GreaterGlasgowLPSTMilngavie@scotland.pnn.police.uk”