Epsom Church Minister Condemns 'Intimidating' Protest Over Alleged Gang-Rape
The minister of a church near the scene of an alleged gang-rape in Epsom has strongly condemned an intimidating protest that saw hundreds gather in the Surrey town to demand information from police about the suspects. The Rev Catherine Hutton of Epsom Methodist church spoke out after the demonstration on Wednesday evening, which involved objects being thrown at officers and road blockages.
Details of the Alleged Incident and Police Response
According to Surrey police, a woman in her 20s is believed to have been assaulted outside Epsom Methodist church after leaving Labyrinth nightclub early on Saturday morning, between 2am and 4am. Officers have stated they are actively working to locate the suspects but currently lack sufficient information to release public details. They have appealed for witnesses and urged against speculation to avoid hindering the investigation.
Ch Supt Mark Chapman emphasised that while the police respect the right to lawful protest, criminal offences and public disorder will not be tolerated. Dozens of police officers in helmets and with shields were deployed during the protest, but no arrests were made at the scene. The crowd dispersed around 8pm after causing disruption to motorists.
Community Reaction and Church-Led Response
Catherine Hutton, speaking outside the church, described the community as shocked and appalled by reports of the alleged attack. She recounted feeling intimidated when encountering the protest while getting off a train on Wednesday. In response, the church organised a Hope for Epsom event on Thursday afternoon, inviting people to come together in love and grace.
The service was attended by community members, leaders, police officers, and clergy. It featured a specially commissioned song of hope and allowed attendees to lay stones at the front of the church as a symbol of solidarity. Hutton quoted Martin Luther King Jr., stating, Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that, and highlighted the event as a way to declare the community's goodness.
Protestor Perspectives and Ongoing Appeals
Mark Laxton, an Epsom resident who joined the protest, explained that around 200 to 300 people gathered, organised online, out of frustration over perceived lack of police presence and safety concerns. He said, All people want is answers because no one is safe any more, hoping the demonstration would prompt action from authorities.
Surrey police continue to appeal for information, urging witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area during the incident to come forward, quoting reference number PR/45260041426. Anonymous tips can be provided through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111 or using their online form.
