A WOMAN was seriously sexually assaulted while out jogging in Bishopdown. 

The attack happened at about 6.30pm on Tuesday night.

The woman, who is in her 20s, was jogging through the alleyway which links Jewell Close, Bishopdown and St Clements Close, Bishopdown Farm.

Police say she was grabbed from behind by a man who subjected her to a serious sexual assault.

After the attack the man ran off towards Bishopdown Farm.

The suspect is described as white, about 6ft tall and of medium build. He was wearing a dark coloured hooded top and jogging bottoms.

Detective Inspector Ron Peach said: "The victim is understandably extremely distressed by the attack and is being supported by our specialist officers. My team are conducting a thorough investigation and I am appealing for the public to come forward with any information, the smallest detail may be key to helping us identify this man."

"If you were in the area of the alleyway which runs between Jewell Close and St Clements Close yesterday evening between 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm, I would like to hear from you. "

"Also, did you hear anything suspicious or see a man matching the description running from the alleyway into the Bishopdown Farm estate? - If you have any information please contact us."

"My officers will be carrying out further enquiries in the area and we would like to thank the local residents for their co operation in advance as we know that they will be keen to assist us in finding the man responsible."

Local Commander, Inspector Dave Minty, said: "News of this attack will be concerning for the local community and I would like to reassure residents that we are taking the report very seriously.

"The community may see an increased police presence as officers conduct their enquiries and I would encourage everyone to think about the simple measures that we all should take with regards to personal safety."

Wiltshire Police have issued the following safety advice:

  • Think about your safety before you leave home; make sure someone knows where you are going, who you are with and what time you are likely to return.

• Fully charge your mobile phone and keep it with you so you can keep in contact with your friends and family and ring police should you need to

• If on a night out, try to stay with friends and don’t go off alone - don’t let any of your friends go off alone either. Look out for each other especially if one of you has drunk too much

• If you have to walk alone, keep to busy well lit roads even if it means taking a longer route

• If you think someone is following you, go to the nearest place where there are people and ask for help, or, if you can’t find somewhere or you are worried in any way, ring 999.

• Don’t be afraid about being wrong or overreacting; the police would rather be called only to find that all is well, than be dealing with an incident because someone was afraid of calling them.

• Carrying a personal attack alarm is a good idea, day or night, especially if you are walking alone.

• Always try to be aware of what and who is around you and avoid putting yourself in a potentially dangerous situation.

• And remember, it might not be you that is in danger – if you see anything you think is suspicious call the police.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Salisbury CID on 101. Alternatively call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 where details may be left anonymously if preferred.

Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual assault can also contact the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) on 0808 168 0024 for confidential advice and support.