Woman suffers incredibly distressing sex assault in Bristol park

A man is being sought after what police describe as "an incredibly distressing and alarming" sexual assault in Castle Park, Bristol. Avon and Somerset Police have issued an image of a man they believe may be able to help them with the investigation.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, September 10, when a woman was approached by a stranger in Union Street. Soon after 3.30am they walked towards Castle Park where the assault took place.

Officers have issued a description and CCTV image of a man they wish to speak to. He is described as black, of average build, around 5ft 8ins tall and aged between 30 and 40 years old.

Investigating officer in the case, PC Aroosa Saif, said: “We understand this must be an incredibly distressing and alarming incident and I would like to commend the victim in having the courage to come forward and report this incident to us.

“We would like to assure the public we are doing our upmost to investigate this incident and bring those responsible to justice. We appreciate the image is not the clearest, but we are hoping someone recognises the individual or the clothes they are wearing.

"We believe the person pictured may have information about the incident which can aid our enquiries. If you have any information about the incident which could help our enquiries, or you recognise the person pictured, please call us."

Avon and Somerset Police's statement reads: "We are appealing for the public’s help to identify someone officers are keen to speak to following a sexual assault. They are described as a Black man, aged between 30-40 years old, of average build, and approximately 5ft 8ins tall.

"He is shown wearing a light grey puffed jacket with his hood up, dark trousers and black shoes. On 10 September at around 3.30am, the victim was sitting on Union Street when she was approached by an unknown man. The pair walked up Union Street towards Castle Park. The victim was then sexually assaulted by the suspect."

If you can help Avon and Somerset Police with this incident, call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5224238799 , or complete the online appeals form. You can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form.

No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers.