West Mercia Police have confirmed that a teenage girl was sexually assaulted after being forced into trees in Nunnery Wood, Worcester, and officers are continuing their search for the suspect.
The attack happened at around 8.15am on Tuesday (November 10), when the victim was approached by an unknown male in the woods and forced further into the trees before the suspect attempted to rape her. The girl managed to break free and ran to seek help from a member of the public, reportedly a dog walker, who raised the alarm.
Police update on suspect
In a new update, West Mercia Police have revised their description of the suspect, who remains at large. He is now described as mixed race or Asian, aged between 16 and 18, and was wearing all black at the time of the attack.
Officers have been carrying out patrols near the scene and working alongside the head teacher of a nearby school to offer support and reassurance to pupils and parents. Specialist officers are also continuing to support the victim.
School response
Following the incident, Nunnery Wood High School and Worcester Sixth Form College both contacted parents, staff, and students to issue safety advice. Steve Powell, headteacher of Nunnery Wood High School, said: "All parents and carers have been informed about this very serious incident and we have spoken to all students in school, reinforcing ways in which they can keep themselves safe. We've recommended students walk through well-populated routes and not alone."
A spokesperson for Worcester Sixth Form College added: "We have this afternoon communicated with our staff, students and parents".
Community reaction
Local councillor Elaine Willmore, who represents the Nunnery ward, condemned the attack as "utterly horrendous" and praised the teenager's courage. She said: "I can't even begin to imagine how petrified this young girl must have been and I hope she is receiving the support she needs. I've spoken to the police today and am confident they are doing everything possible to bring this despicable individual to justice."
"It's our job as a community to help them do this in any way we can. Such a contrast between the bravery of the young girl and the cowardice of the male involved," she added, according to The Worcester News.
Investigation ongoing
Safer Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Dan Pilkington said: "A significant number of officers were sent to the area and completed searches of woods and surrounding areas. Enquiries are ongoing to identify the suspect, who was described as mixed race or Asian, a teenager - believed to be between 16 and 18 years of age - and was wearing all black."
"Officers will be continuing to carry out enquiries, collating CCTV to progress the investigation and will be providing a visible presence in the area," he added. "We thank local residents for their cooperation yesterday and extend our appreciation to the public for getting in contact with us and sharing our appeal."
Anyone who was in the Nunnery Wood area around 8.15am on Tuesday, or who has relevant CCTV, dashcam footage, or information that could assist enquiries, is urged to call police on 101 quoting reference 78i of 10 November. Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.
