Appeal for witnesses after woman seriously sexually assaulted in Paisley

An investigation is under way in Paisley after a woman was seriously sexually assaulted in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Published 27th Nov 2016

An investigation is under way in Paisley after a woman was seriously sexually assaulted in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Police Scotland released the following statement:

Around 0220 hours this morning, a 40 year-old woman was walking along Merksworth Way, Paisley, when she was approached by man who pushed her to the ground and seriously sexually assaulted her.

After the attack, she managed to get help from the residents of a nearby house and police were called. She was taken by ambulance to the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley where she was treated and has since been released.

Her attacker is described as male, white, 5 ft 7 in height, well-built, dark spiky hair and is believed to have an Eastern European accent. He was wearing a dark hooded top – which he had up - and jeans. He ran off in the direction of the airport after the attack.

Detective Inspector Louise Harvie, Paisley Police Office, said today:

“Merksworth Way is one of three streets with a grassy area joining them all. The lady was cutting across the path in that grassy area when she was attacked by the man.

“She hadn’t seen anybody about and just remembers him approaching her and then attacking her.

“Thankfully the woman got help from someone in one of the houses nearby and police were called.

“The area is residential so it’s possible that someone may have heard either a disturbance or shouting that was out of the ordinary. Either that or they may have seen the man hanging about the area.

“This was a terrifying attack for the lady to go through. It is vital we catch this man, so if you have any information that you may think will help police with their enquiries, then please contact Paisley Police Office via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence.” Additional patrols are in the area. Anyone with any information or concerns can speak to those officers as well.