Extra police patrols in Backwell over indecent exposure incidents
The force's Neighbourhood Police teams will be carrying out extra high-visibility patrols to help reassure the public after a number of incidents in recent months
Extra police patrols are being carried out in Backwell after reports of indecent exposure in recent weeks.
The Avon and Somerset force say the Neighbourhood Policing team will be stepping-up with high-visibility officers, following the incidents in May, July and August.
They say they don't know if all of the incidents are connected, but police say they're keeping an open mind into what's happening.
There have been two reports alone in recent days.
On July 27, a woman told police about an incident after was walking around Backwell Lake at about 8.30pm.
She described the man as white, about 5ft 10ins, with brown hair and facial hair, and approximately aged between 25 and 30.
He was wearing shorts at the time of the incident and had a black pushbike.
Another incident, on August 1, was reported to police at about 3.20pm at the lake.
Sergeant Lee Kerslake, of the Nailsea Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We are carrying out regular high-visibility patrols to try to identify the man responsible and provide reassurance. If anyone has concerns then please stop those officers on patrol and they will be happy to help.
“While the woman was not physically harmed by last week’s incident, understandably it left her upset and we will make sure she has access to support services.”
A similar incident was reported at lakes in Chelvey, near the River Kenn, on Monday 22 May.
Sgt Kerslake continued: “At the moment, it is unclear if this incident is connected to the two in recent days, but we are keeping an open mind given the two sites are not too far apart.
“For that reason we’d urge anyone who has experienced any similar incidents in the past to please make sure they report it to police so we have a comprehensive understanding as it could significantly help us identify the offender.
“You can report information to the neighbourhood team online or on 101, quoting reference number 5223180704. Alternatively, Crimestoppers will take reports anonymously via its website or on 0800 555111.
“If you witness a crime in progress, please call 999.”