NEW PICTURE: Littlehampton stab victim Lucy Yates improving

The 20-year-old former Worthing High School pupil, pictured with her boyfriend Peter John, son of former Worthing Mayor Nick John, has regained consciousness and spoken to her mother after surviving the horrific attack on Tuesday, September 16.

Lucy, whose family live in Pulborough, moved to Littlehampton three days before the attack at the Anchor Springs branch of Somerfield.

She is still in a critical but stable condition.

Samuel Reid-Wentworth, 21, of Bognor, who is charged with Lucy's attempted murder, appeared at Worthing Magistrates Court on Thursday, September 18, and was remanded in custody.

He will next appear at Lewes Crown Court on Monday, September 29.

Police appeal

Police officers from the West Downs Division and the Major Crime Branch continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Detectives would like to hear from witnesses who were in the area around the Somerfield supermarket between 4 and 4.30pm on Tuesday, September 16, who may have seen the assault.

A police spokesman said: "Those who have already come forward do not need to so again and Sussex Police would like to thank them for their assistance.

"Everyone who has come forward will be contacted by the investigating team in due course."

Officers' contact numbers

Call police quoting operation Pentney on 0845 60 70 999, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Sussex Victim Support has set up a phone line for anyone affected by the incident on 0845 38 99 528.

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