Woman in her 20s 'raped' at seaside holiday spot - as police hunt alleged attacker
Police are hunting a man who allegedly raped a woman in her twenties in a UK seaside holiday hotspot last week.
The reported attack took place at Hotham Park in Bognor between 11.10pm on Sunday April 20 and 00.45am on Monday April 21.
The large 22 acre park is only minutes walk from the waterfront promenade, Butlin's holiday resort and the University of Chichester.
The woman is being supported by specially-trained officers while police investigate the crime and track down the alleged perpetrator.
Detective Chief Inspector Steve Cobbett said: 'Officers have been carrying out enquiries, and the public can expect to see a heightened police presence in the area while this matter is investigated.
'We are in the early stages of this investigation, however it is believed to be an isolated incident. Anyone with concerns can approach officers to speak with them.
'Reports of rape are taken extremely seriously, and we urge anyone with information to come forward, including witnesses in the area or those with CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage.'
District Commander William Keating-Jones said: 'We understand the public's concern and we are working hard alongside partner agencies to tackle crime in the town.
'Officers will continue to carry out high-visibility patrols in Bognor to provide reassurance, to catch offenders, and to prevent new offences being committed.
'We continue to encourage anyone who is impacted by crimes to report them to us.'
Anyone with information about the incident in Hotham Park on 21 April is asked to report it to Sussex Police online or call 101, quoting Operation Westbeach.
Further guidance on support available for victims of rape and serious sexual offences is available on the Sussex Police website.
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