A black cab driver who assaulted two women after they fell asleep has pleaded guilty to attempted rape and sexual assaults today.

David Perry, 52, of Gayton House, Bow, pleaded guilty to one count of attempted rape, one count assault by penetration and one count sexual assault against one victim and one count of sexual assault on a second victim on the first day of his trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court.

An investigation was launched by detectives after the offences took place in January 2013 in Islington and May 2014 in South Woodford.

Both offences took place in the early hours of the morning and the victims were both women in there 20s who had been out socialising before getting into Perry’s taxi and falling asleep, only to wake up and find him assaulting them.

Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Price, from the Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command, said: “Perry, as the driver of an iconic black taxi, was in a position of trust. Sadly, he breached that trust by targeting women who he perceived to be vulnerable.

“Thankfully, those women came forward and reported him to the police. Today, I must praise them both for their strength and determination to see him brought to justice.

“Perry was a taxi driver for some 25-years and I must consider the possibility he may have committed other offences that have not been reported to the police.”

Following an investigation Perry was arrested at his home address in August. His DNA was matched to both offences and he was charged in the same month.

Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Price added: “As part of this investigation we have made detailed enquiries into his past and eliminated unsolved cases from this enquiry. I would now appeal directly to anyone, who as a result of this case, thinks they may have been raped or assaulted by Perry.

“I would like to reassure anyone worried about coming forward that they will be treated with the utmost sensitivity and specially trained officers will be available to listen to them and support them through each step.”

Police are asking anyone who thinks they may have been raped or assaulted by David Perry to call them on 020 8217 6446.