Police want to speak to this person after an incident in Victoria Park, Taunton. Pictures: Avon & Somerset Police/Google

CCTV appeal after woman raped in Victoria Park, Taunton

Paul JonesOctober 12, 20250 Comment1

POLICE have issued a CCTV image as part of a rape investigation in Taunton.

A woman reported that a man raped her in Victoria Park, Taunton, overnight on Friday into Saturday (October 10 and 11).

Members of the public found the woman in a distressed state and called officers at about 5am on Saturday morning.

Police said an area of Victoria Park was cordoned off for investigations which have now concluded, with enquiries “in the early stages”.

The woman has described her attacker as a black man, in his 20s, and of muscular build, with a beard. She told officers he had approached her and they had spent some time talking on a bench in the park before the attack took place.

Detective Sergeant Wendy Fellowes said: “We’re taking this incident very seriously and carrying out our enquiries at pace. Investigators will remain in the area in the coming days as we continue to follow up all available leads.

“We’re supporting the woman and she’s been offered access to specialist services.

“I’d urge anyone who was in the area of Victoria Park at any time between 10pm on Friday and 5am on Saturday who has any information or footage which could be relevant to contact us.”

Officers have issued an image of a man they would like to trace, who was seen on CCTV in the area.

The man in the image is wearing a blue top with white writing, a darker blue jacket, light-coloured trousers, trainers and a baseball cap. He is Black and has a beard.

“We’d like to hear from him and anyone who recognises him or who has any other information,” an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson added.

Anyone who recognises the person pictured, or has information, should contact police on 101, reference 5225285274, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Help is available for victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or non-recent. People can self-refer to The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre available 24/7 365 days a year. Visit their website or call 0117 342 6999.

There are also details of charities and organisations with expertise in supporting victims at www.thisisnotanexcuse.org.