At around 11:00 pm on Saturday 30 June the victim a 43 year old local woman was walking along a footpath between Penhill and Abbeymeads.
As she approached near to Latton Close a man cycled towards her and punched her in the face causing her to fall to the ground.
The cyclist didn’t stop and there was no further interaction between them. The victim was able to get home and police were called.
The cyclist is described as white and aged under 30.
Inspector Andy Bridge said: “This was an unprovoked attack and at this time we have no indication of a motive. Fortunately the victim wasn’t seriously hurt but this must have been shocking and very upsetting for her. Our investigation is underway to identify this man and we ask that anyone who has information about him comes forward. We will keep the community updated with our progress and have increased patrols in the area.”
- Did you see a cyclist in this area?
- Did you witness the assault?
- Have you any information which could help our investigation?
Wiltshire Police have issued a set of guidelines regarding personal safety for when out and about:
• Think about your safety before you leave home; make sure someone knows where you are going, who you are with and what time you are likely to return.
• Plan ahead; if you are catching a bus or train, what time does it leave and return, what will you do if you miss it or it is cancelled? And If travelling by taxi, always use a properly licensed firm and book ahead. On the return journey wait for the taxi driver to ask for you – don’t assume a car pulling up is your taxi
• Fully charge your mobile phone and keep it with you so you can keep in contact with your friends and family and ring police should you need to
• Try to stay with friends and don’t go off alone – don’t let any of your friends go off alone either. Look out for each other especially if one of you has drunk too much
• If you have to walk alone, keep to busy well lit roads even if it means taking a longer route
• If you think someone is following you, go to the nearest place where there are people and ask for help, or, if you can’t find somewhere or you are worried in any way, ring 999.
• Don’t be afraid about being wrong or over-reacting; the Police would rather be called only to find that all is well, than be dealing with an incident because someone was afraid of calling them.
• Carrying a personal attack alarm is a good idea, day or night, especially if you are walking alone.
• Always try to be aware of what and who is around you and avoid putting yourself in a potentially dangerous situation.
• And remember, it might not be you that is in danger – if you see anything you think is suspicious call the police – better safe than sorry!
Please call PC Simon Talbot at Swindon Gablecross Police Station on 101 quoting ref 54180059913. Alternatively call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 where details may be left anonymously if preferred.
