Serious sexual assault in Cheltenham

Police in Cheltenham have released CCTV images taken prior to a serious sexual assault in the town early on Friday morning

The incident happened at around 3.10am on March 18 in Grosvenor Place South.

The victim, a 20-year-old woman from Cheltenham, was out with friends at Lace nightclub in Albion Street.

When she left at around 3.10am, a man who had also been at the club accompanied her along Albion Street and then into Grosvenor Place South, where she was attacked.

The images show a man police would like to speak to in connection with the incident.

The first two show him in the outdoor smoking area of the club. The third and fourth images show him walking through the alleyway leading onto Albion street alongside a woman (not pictured).

Detective Inspector Steve Bean said: “We have been examining CCTV footage relating to this incident and would like people to look carefully at the images to see if they recognise the man.

“If you were in the nightclub or area mentioned in the early hours of Friday morning then please contact police. Your information could be vital and by calling Crimestoppers you can tell us what you know without having to give your name.”

On Friday DI Bean gave this advice people in the area: “We do not want to cause any unnecessary alarm or distress but we are urging people to be aware of their personal safety. Don’t walk home alone at night, try to get a taxi or stay with friends.

“If you are walking home then always choose well-lit routes and avoid alleyways or shortcuts. Be aware of your surroundings and of anyone who may be acting suspiciously. Do not engage in conversations with strangers and if you are concerned for your safety then contact the police.”

Anyone with information that might help police should contact DS Grant Wheeler on 0845 090 1234 quoting incident 81 of March 18.

Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org