Shoebury: Ongoing sexual assault investigation

Officers are carrying out patrols in Gunners Park in Shoeburyness, following a sexual assault which was reported yesterday.

Officers were called to the park at around 10am on Tuesday, 17 October following reports of a woman being assaulted. The victim, who was walking with her dog was approached by a man who engaged in a short conversation with her. The man then grabbed her by the arms before sexually assaulting her.

The victim is continuing to receive support from specialist officers.

No arrests have been made at this stage but officers are continuing enquiries in the local area.

Those using the park today will have noticed an increased police presence.

Chief Inspector Jo Collins, District Commander for Southend said “I totally appreciate that this incident has concerned residents.

“I must stress that these assaults are rare and that our investigation teams are working quickly to identify the suspect.

“The increased police presence today isn’t down to the fact that we believe there to be a wider danger to the public but it’s been an opportunity for residents to discuss any concerns with our officers.”

Investigating officers are continuing to appeal to anyone with any information to get in contact with us. The suspect is described as a white man, around 5’8” tall with short, white thinning hair. He was of a larger build and believed to be in his late 50s. He was wearing a blue coat/mac.

We are appealing to anyone who may have been in the Shoeburyness area this morning and witnessed anything to contact us, quoting incident number 308 of 17 October.

You can let us know by submitting a report online or by using our Live Chat service.

Live Chat is an online service available on our website Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm, where you can send and receive real-time direct messages with an online digital 101 operator.

To use the service, select the ‘Live Chat’ icon at the bottom right of your screen when you're on our website. It can be accessed from a desktop computer, laptop, tablet or mobile phone.

Alternatively you can call us on 101.

To find out more about the different reporting services visit our 'Help Us Help You' webpage.