Cordon in place following sexual assault in Hereford

[Hereford Voice]

A cordon is currently in place on the river path between Hinton Road and King George V playing fields in Hereford following a sexual assault at around 10pm last night (Friday 12 August).

West Mercia Police were called after a man grabbed a women from behind and exposed himself.

The incident took place on the river path between King George V playing fields and Hinton Road between 9.45pm and 10.15pm.

The suspect is described as a white male with a local accent, 5ft 7in tall, aged 35-40, with a dirty appearance, short light blonde hair and wearing square framed glasses. He was carrying a backpack and wearing black trousers and brown walking boots which were muddy.

Officers are particularly keen to trace a man who was walking a large white Staffordshire Bull Terrier type dog along the path as it is believed may have seen the suspect in the moments following the incident. If you are this man, or you know who he may be, please get in touch.

Investigations are continuing today with officers carrying house-to-house enquiries as well as reviewing available CCTV and video doorbell footage. Searches of the area will also continue.

The cordon will remain in place for much of today while evidence gathering continues.

Superintendent Rebecca Love, said: “I’m aware that there have been a number of incidents along the river path recently, and understandably this is causing concern within the local community.

“I totally understand these concerns and would like to re-iterate that we are investigating all reports and are using our specially trained officers in supporting the victims.

“We have already increased patrols along the river paths, especially after dark, and these will continue. In addition, we are working closely with partners to discuss measures to increase the safety of these areas.”

“Lastly, we believe a man who was walking his white Staffordshire Bull Terrier along the river at the time could be a key witness and we would urge him, or anyone who may know who he is, to come forward.”

Anyone who was in the area last night and saw anything suspicious or have any information which may help the investigation is asked to report it online at https://www.westmercia.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/ quoting reference 717i of 12 August. If you are unable to report online please call 101.