Police appeal following serious sexual assault in Chester – man arrested on suspicion of rape & knife possession

Detectives are appealing for witnesses to come forward following a serious sexual assault in Chester city centre.

The incident was reported to police in the early hours of Sunday morning, 30 December.

The victim, a 23-year-old woman from Chester, was in the city centre on a night out with friends.

At around 5.30am the woman, who had become temporarily detached from her friends, was subjected to a serious sexual assault in an alleyway off Northgate Street, near to the Dublin Packet pub.

Detective Sergeant Paul Nolan, who is overseeing the investigation, said: “The victim is traumatised following her ordeal and is currently being supported by specialist officers.

“I urge anyone who has any information which may assist with our enquiries to come forward.

“We want to speak to anyone who believes they may have witnessed something that is relevant to our investigation.

“We are particularly keen to speak to a number of men who were seen in the vicinity of the Dublin Packet pub on Northgate Street around the time of the incident and may have witnessed what took place.”

A 54-year-old man from Folkestone has been arrested on suspicion of rape and being in possession of a knife in a public place in relation to the incident. He is currently assisting detectives with their enquiries.

Inspector Brian Green, from Chester Local Policing Unit, said: “I would like to reassure the local community that incidents such as this are rare and we are doing all that we can to establish exactly what has taken place.

“We would always urge people to follow basic safety advice when out and about – remain vigilant when walking alone, especially at night, maintain an awareness of your surroundings and try to stick to well-lit areas. If you see anyone acting suspiciously or have any concerns then contact police immediately.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any other information that may help detectives with their investigation is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101, quoting IML 282056, give the details via https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.