Police appeal after sexual assault in Ilkeston park

A 21-year-old woman was walking through Chaucer Park, close to the underpass beneath Chalons Way, at about 3.15pm on Friday, July 3.

As she walked, she was grabbed by a man and sexually assaulted, but managed to kick out at the offender and run away.

The man was white, about 5ft 7ins, aged between 50 and 60, of stocky build with a moustache and dark, balding hair. He was wearing a dark t-shirt, blue jeans and white trainers, and was described as smelling of alcohol and cigarettes.

Police believe that the area was busy with pupils from Ormiston Enterprise Academy, some of whom may have seen the suspect in the area.

Detective Inspector Donna Sisson said: “This incident was a sexual assault on a young woman, which occurred in the middle of the afternoon in a public place used by many people as a thoroughfare.

“This is an isolated and highly unusual incident, but it is very important that we identify the offender as quickly as possible.

“If you were in the Chaucer Park or Ilkeston town last Friday afternoon and saw a man fitting that description, please call us immediately.”

Witnesses or anyone with information that could help the investigation should call Derbyshire police on 101, quoting crime reference 28214/15.

You can also call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.