Horror as woman is raped by stranger during Royal Ascot – with cops launching urgent manhunt for attacker
POLICE have launched an urgent manhunt cyclist after a woman in her 20s was allegedly raped during Royal Ascot.
The victim was walking along a footpath near Ascot station when she was approached by a man between 11pm and 11.30pm on June 21.
The offender, believed to be in his mid-20s, is then said to have raped her.
He is described as a white man of average height and of a slim build.
The man is understood to have been wearing “a black or dark hooded top, with the hood up” and was riding a dark coloured bike “that may have had yellow detail on it”.
It came just hours after thousands had attended Royal Ascot at the nearby racecourse on Friday, before racegoers again flocked to the historic venue again on Saturday.
No arrests have yet been made.
Investigating officer Detective Inspector Liam Butler, said: “We are investigating this concerning incident and have been making extensive enquiries.
“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 11pm and 11.30pm and has dash-cam footage, please get in touch.”
A statement from Thames Valley Police added: “Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses following a rape that happened in the town of Ascot.
“Between 11pm and 11.30pm on Friday (21/6) 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 in her twenties is being supported by specially trained officers.
“Anyone with information is urged to contact Thames Valley Police on 101 quoting reference 43240293544.
“Or if you do not wish to speak to the police please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”