Manhunt after alleged assault of woman in Ponteland Park

Officers investigating a report of assault in a Northumberland park are appealing to the public for information that may help trace the suspect.

Shortly after 6 pm on Friday police received a report a woman had been grabbed by an unknown man in Ponteland Park.

The woman was walking in the area of the park between Waitrose and the Memorial Hall, when the offender has reportedly approached her from behind and grabbed her, placing both arms around her chest. The victim has then managed to kick the offender and left the scene.

It is believed the offender has then left the area, heading in the direction of Darras Hall.

The incident was immediately reported to Northumbria Police and an investigation launched.

Enquiries remain ongoing and police remain in the area, carrying out reassurance patrols.

Officers have already spoken to a number of people and reviewed CCTV of the area and are appealing for anyone who might have seen the man or have information about this incident to come forward.

The man is described as a white male, average height, large build, and was wearing a black beanie hat, with black gloves, and a black snood or scarf up to his nose. He was also wearing dark trousers and a dark jacket.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police by using the ‘Tell us Something’ page on their website, or by calling 101, quoting log NP-2023-0113-0881.