Serious sexual assault on Highridge Common

Police are telling Heart the woman was sexually assaulted in a terrifying ordeal.  Here are the details Detectives have sent us in full:

Detectives from Bristol's dedicated team to tackle rape and sexual assault are appealing for information following a serious incident in Highridge, Bristol.

Sometime between 11pm on Thursday February 17 and 2.30am on Friday February 18 a 32 year old woman left the Elm Tree Pub on Queens Road, Bishopsworth alone to walk home. 

Her route took her along Highridge road, Highridge Common, and then into Four Acres in order to catch a bus.

Having walked into Four Acres the victim was suddenly approached by a man who grabbed her arm. The victim shouted at the man and struck him to the face causing a scratch down the right side.

He then dragged the victim across to Highridge Common where she was raped.

Detective Sergeant Roger Doxsey said: "We are keen to speak to a man (pictured in the e-fit) who may have been in the area at the time and may be able to help with our enquiries.

"He is described as white, aged 28-35 years old, around 5ft 8inches tall and of a medium yet strong build. He had dark hair and was wearing a light coloured top, a black tracksuit type jacket with two or three green or blue stripes on the sleeves and light blue jeans. He smelt of beer and deodorant.

"The victim has been through a terrifying ordeal and we would like to speak to anyone who may have seen the man described in the area or in fact anyone acting suspiciously around these times.

"The Elm Tree public house re-opened following refurbishment a week ago today, we know many people attended the opening and we would like to speak to them if we have not already done so."

DS Doxsey added: "Bristol is a safe place and stranger rape is very rare in our communities. In 92% of cases the victim knows their offender. Charging rates in the City for this type of offence are at the highest they have ever been. We will continue to work tirelessly to locate this offender and bring him to justice."

Uniformed police officers have been increased in the area however people are urged to remain vigilant and follow the listed safety advice:

• Don't walk alone at night – book a cab or stay with a friend
• Stay alert to your surroundings – don't chat on your mobile or listen to an MP3
• Get and carry a personal attack alarm
• Stick to well-lit, busy areas – don't take a dark shortcut
• Tell someone where you're going and who you're with
• Walk confidently and be wary of strangers trying to start a conversation
• Have your car or house keys ready to hand
• Report anything suspicious to police on 0845 456 7000

If anything should happen:

• Scream, set off your personal alarm – make as much noise as you can
• Run to a busy place as soon as you can and call 999

Anyone who may have any information in relation to this incident or anyone who may be able to identify the man pictured is asked to call Operation Bluestone officers on 0845 456 7000 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.