Sexual Assault Investigation, Hereford

Detectives are appealing for witnesses after a woman reported to police that she was sexually assaulted in Hereford yesterday.

A man and a woman, who are both in their 20s and known to each other, were together on Prospect Walk near Broadlands Primary School off Eastnor Drive.  The woman has told officers that some time between 10pm and 11pm he sexually assaulted her on the grassy area at the top of Garnstone Rise.

A man in his 20s was arrested today and is currently in custody at Hereford Police Station being questioned by detectives.

Detective Inspector Leighton Harding, who is investigating the incident, said: "We currently have detectives and forensic officers working at the scene and I would ask local residents to forgive us for any inconvenience caused.

"I would also like to ask for anyone who was in the area of Prospect Walk last night to contact us. We believe that there may have been people out about at that time, for example dog walkers. The scene is also overlooked by a number of properties and we will be conducting house-to-house inquiries in the coming days.

"If anyone did see or hear anything suspicious, then please contact West Mercia Police as soon as possible."

DI Harding can be contacted on the non-emergency police number, 101, or information can be passed on anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Please quote the reference number 904s 10/08/12.

Issued: Saturday 11 August 2012