Police are searching for a man after a woman was raped on the Trans Pennine Trail in the Bolton-upon-Dearne area. The attack was reported at around 2.50pm on Wednesday, and detectives and forensic officers remain at the scene on a section of the trail between Mexborough Road and Harlington Road.
Suspect description
The victim said her attacker was wearing a dark jumper, black gloves and a black face covering, and that he spoke with a southern accent. He is also described as being of a tall, stocky build.
The victim continues to receive support from officers and medical professionals.
Police appeal
Detective Inspector Helen Hughes, the senior investigating officer, said: “We know the impact an incident of this traumatic nature has on our local communities. People will be rightfully concerned, and we completely understand why this is the case.
“Our investigation is underway and we are utilising every resource we have at our disposal to pursue every line of enquiry with determination to provide answers and secure justice for the victim.
“Thorough forensic sweeps have already taken place and we are continuing to explore CCTV and witness opportunities to identify the man behind this horrific attack.
“The victim has shown immeasurable strength and remembered some key details about the suspect.
“Did you see someone matching the description of the suspect? Do you have information which you think could be relevant? If so, please get in touch immediately.
“We are also aware of previous reports involving a man behaving suspiciously on the Trans Pennine Trail. We are keeping an open mind and factoring these reports into the range of enquiries we are conducting.
“We issued an appeal in relation to our ongoing investigation earlier today and I want to thank everyone who has contacted us with information already.
“If you have relevant information but are yet to contact us, then please do so as your intelligence could be crucial to our enquiries. Even the smallest piece of information could be an important part of the overall picture.
“If you have any concerns, please speak to officers in your local community to report information or to raise any issues you have as they are there to help you and keep you safe.”
