POLICE have launched an appeal for witnesses following a serious sexual assault on a young woman close to Warrington town centre at the weekend.
The assault took place at around 2am on Sunday, December 4 when a 20-year-old woman was walking into the town centre when she came across a man near the bus stop opposite the Royal Oak in Knutsford Road. They walked together toward the town centre, via Old Road.
The incident occurred near to the stairs,that lead to Wilderspool Causway. After the incident, the victim continued up the stairs towards the town centre while the man walked back towards Knutsford Road.
The man is described as white and of stocky build with a ‘beer belly’. He is approximately 32- years-old, 5ft 8ins tall with dark hair which was in the style of short back and sides. He also had stubble on his face.
He was wearing a white shirt, black pants and was carrying a pizza box at the time he met the victim. He stated that his name was ‘Matthew’.
DS Ray Gordge said: “Specialist officers are currently supporting the victim and we are appealing to anyone who may have any information about the incident or anyone who may have observed the victim or the suspect at these locations to contact police.
“We urge anyone to get in touch that may have been in the area on foot or in a car that may have any recorded footage from mobile phone or dashcam.”
DS Gordge added: “We would always advise that people take steps to ensure their safety when out at night such as keeping to well-lit areas and separating from your friends. Always ensure you have a safe way to get home such as a pre-booked taxi. Never get in a car offering you a lift, no matter how tempting it is.”
Anyone with information should contact Police on 101 quoting incident number 134 of 4 December 2016.
Alternatively information can be given anonymously by contacting Crime stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Scene of the serious sexual assault
