Police launch manhunt after woman attacked and raped after Royal Ascot

Royal ascot rider and horse

Police launch manhunt after woman attacked and raped after Royal Ascot

PA
Holly Bishop

By Holly Bishop


Published: 28/06/2024

- 08:43

Updated: 28/06/2024

- 10:07

The woman in her twenties is being supported by specially trained officers

Police have launched a manhunt after a woman was attacked and raped after the Royal Ascot racing festival.

A woman in her twenties was walking on a footpath when a young white man in a "dark hooded top" assaulted her last Friday between 11pm and 11.30pm.


He has been described to be of slim build, average height, and in his early to mid-twenties.

The offender was riding a dark-coloured bike that "may have had yellow detail on it", police said.

Royal ascot rider and horsePolice launch manhunt after woman attacked and raped after Royal AscotPA

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said today: "Officers are appealing for witnesses following a rape that happened in the town of Ascot.

"Between 11pm and 11.30pm on Friday a woman was walking on a footpath near Station Hill, when she was approached by a man who then raped her.

"The victim, a woman aged in her 20s, is being supported by specially trained officers.

"The offender is described as a white man in his early to mid-20s, of average height and of slim build. He was wearing a black or dark hooded top, with the hood up. He was riding a dark coloured bike that may have had yellow detail on it."

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Police

Police are appealing for witnesses of the attack

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Ascot Racecourse

The attack occurred near Ascot Racecourse

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They said that no one has been arrested yet.

Investigating officer Detective Inspector Liam Butler, said: "We are investigating this concerning incident and have been making extensive inquiries.

"Patrols in the area have been increased for reassurance. We are asking for the public's assistance and would request that anyone with information to please come forward.

"If you recognise the individual described who may be known to the Station Hill area, or if anyone was driving in the area between 11.00pm and 11.30pm and has dash-cam footage, please get in touch.

'"If you have information please contact Thames Valley Police on 101 or you can provide information through our online pages. Or if you do not wish to speak to the police please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

Allison Sharpe, Chairman of the Sunninghill and Ascot Parish Council, told GB News: "I'm horrified to learn of this.

"Ascot has a low crime rate and I know Thames Valley Police are supporting the victim whilst carrying out extensive inquiries.

"I want to know women can feel safe walking in and around Ascot.

"The footpath is well-maintained as it is a busy route between Ascot High Street and Ascot station."

She added: "My thoughts are with the victim and I trust the attacker will be caught soon."

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