Woman, 20, raped on a footpath in Leigh Park

Officers were called following the incident on a footpath connecting Middle Park Way and Chalton Crescent, with the assault happening between midnight and 6.40am today.

The 20-year-old woman is being supported by specialist officers.

Officers are in the area making enquiries and are calling for anyone with information to come forward, according to Detective Inspector Emma Crute.

Det Insp Crute said: ‘This has understandably been a very distressing incident for the woman involved and we are keen to hear from anyone who can assist our investigation.

‘If you were out walking your dog between midnight and 6.40am in the area of Middle Park Way and Chalton Crescent, were driving through the area or have CCTV outside your home, please cast your mind back or check your footage.

‘However small you believe a piece of information to be, it could be vitally important to our investigation, and we want to hear from you.

‘If you heard anything, or saw anything that looked suspicious or out of the ordinary, please get in touch.

‘’If you have any concerns, or want to share any information that can assist us, please do not hesitate to approach any of the officers in the area today.’

Anyone with information should call 101, quoting the reference number 44200450570.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldorn

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