Woman raped on cycle path in Three Bridges

Sussex Police said the victim was walking home after a night out when she was attacked by a man on a cycle path off Haslett Avenue East.

The victim was found staggering along Haslett Avenue East by a member of the public shortly before 11.30pm.

She was treated by paramedics before being taken to a specialist unit that supports the victims of rape and sexual assaults.

Officers are trying to find anyone who may have seen the victim in Haslett Avenue East after the attack or the man responsible.

Crime scene investigators are currently examining the cycle path, between Sutherland House and the BMW dealership, for any evidence that could identify the attacker.

The incident is not currently being linked to any others.

Detective Inspector Rob Walker said: “We believe the rape happened at around 11pm but we are still trying to pinpoint exactly when because the victim is understandably very shaken by her ordeal.

“She is shocked and upset but thankfully does not have serious physical injuries and we are giving her support.

“We need to speak to anyone who used the cycle path that runs between Furnace Green and Haslett Avenue East on Saturday night or who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area.

“Haslett Avenue East is a busy road so there will have been lots of motorists in the area who may have seen the victim after she was attacked.

“If you have any information at all, please contact us.”

Anyone with information should email [email protected] quoting Operation Bowler, call 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.