Police launch appeal for witnesses after alleged rape on cathedral grounds
The incident took place at Hereford Cathedral in the early hours of Sunday
Last updated 4th Nov 2024
West Mercia Police are investigating an alleged rape that took place within the grounds of Hereford Cathedral.
Officers were alerted to the reports of a woman being sexually assaulted at the church around 4:30am on Sunday morning (November 3rd).
When responders arrived at the area, they found the victim and an investigation was launched shortly after.
Following their lines of enquiry, a 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape and currently remains in police custody as the investigation continutes.
Speaking about the case, Detective Inspector Colin Berry from West Mercia Police said that there is no wider risk to the public as he reassured the local community.
He added that the victim has been co-operating with officers and is being supported by trained members of the team.
"Following the review of CCTV footage, there are people passing through the area around the time of the incident that we would like to speak with," he said.
"You may have seen something suspicious or witnessed part of the incident, but any information you can provide could be valuable to our investigation, and we encourage you to come forward."
Anyone who may have seen anything suspicion in the area at the time of the alleged rape can get in touch with the force by contacting Detective Sergeant Leah Lowe on 101 and quoting incident reference number 092i from November 3rd.
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