Woman victim of '˜serious sex assault' at Peatlands Park

Detective Inspector Lynne Knox said, “Police received a report that at approximately 2.45pm as a woman was walking her dog in the Peatlands Park area she was sexually assaulted by an unknown assailant.

“The male made off from the scene on what has been described as a black mountain bike.

“This was an appalling attack and police are pursuing all investigative lines of enquiry.”

DUP councillor Jonathan Buckley said, “As a local councillor for the area it is indeed very distressing to learn that an incident of this nature has taken place and in broad daylight, in such a family-friendly park that is frequently made use of by people of all ages.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the lady involved in this assault and her family at this very difficult time. I will be liaising with the PSNI on this matter as they continue to carry out their investigations.

“It is vital that those responsible for this attack are apprehended and are swiftly brought to justice for their actions.”

The police have urged anyone who witnessed the assault or observed anything suspicious to contact detectives at the Rape Crime Unit on the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.