Police Witness Appeal Over Whitchurch Sex Assault

Police today issued an appeal for information about a man who attacked a young woman in Whitchurch, attempting to sexually assault her.

The 24-year-old woman was pushed to the ground but managed to fight off the man after a short struggle.

She had walked down the Bredwood Arcade alleyway at around 1.15am yesterday, heading towards Tesco car park on White Lion Meadow, when approached by a man.

He grabbed her shoulders and pushed her to the ground near a small area of grass verge. 

A West Mercia Police spokesperson said: "The man attempted to sexually assault the woman as she lay on the ground.  She struggled and managed to kick him in the chest after which he ran off.

"The young woman was badly shaken but fortunately was otherwise unharmed."

Police are anxious to hear from anyone with information which might help identify the man.  "We particularly want people to come forward if they were in the area shortly after 1am, especially if they spotted either the victim or the assailant."

The man is described as white, in his thirties, about six feet tall, of medium build with short cropped dark brown hair, a roundish face and large eyes.  He spoke briefly in a foreign language thought to be eastern European and was wearing a white long-sleeved shirt or jumper.

"Women in the area need to be aware of this incident and are advised not to walk alone late at night,"  added the police spokesperson.

Information should be passed to PC Jo Keppel at Whitchurch police station on the non-emergency 101 number.   The anonymous Crimestoppers number, 0800 555 111 can also be contacted.

Issued: Monday, 19 December 2011