A 29-year-old man has been charged with sexually assaulting seven women in and around the University of Huddersfield. West Yorkshire Police said officers were called to the university on Tuesday evening after security staff reported a man approaching and sexually touching women around and near the campus. Police said the seven women were approached and assaulted between 6pm and 6.30pm, and that all of them made off after the suspect approached and grabbed at them.

Following an investigation, police confirmed that Sophan Akbash, of Cross Lane in Huddersfield, has been charged with nine counts of sexual assault. He is due to appear at Leeds Magistrates' Court.S1S2

University of Huddersfield deputy vice-chancellor Professor Tim Thornton said the institution was working closely with police and that "the safety and wellbeing of our students, staff and visitors is our highest priority". He said the university was providing well-being support to anyone affected and had increased security patrols around campus as a precaution. Students and staff were also encouraged to use the university's SafeZone app, which gives direct access to emergency assistance and campus support and safety staff.S1S2

Detective Inspector Sarah Bradley said police continued to work with university partners to reassure students and staff, and remained committed to supporting victims and safeguarding everyone who lives, studies and works in Huddersfield.S1S2