DETECTIVES investigating an attempted rape of a 21-year-old university student in a sleepy Suffolk village are keen to trace everyone who was drinking at a nearby Suffolk pub the evening of the attack to help move their investigation further forward.

John Howard

DETECTIVES investigating an attempted rape of a 21-year-old university student in a sleepy Suffolk village are keen to trace everyone who was drinking at a nearby Suffolk pub the evening of the attack.

A team of six officers has been drafted in to investigate the terrifying attack on the woman.

The victim was forced into a car park in Little Stonham, near Stowmarket, as she was walking home.

She was held against a wall during the attack by the man - who was wearing dark clothing at the time - before she managed to knee him in the groin and he fled.

Police are also now increasing patrols in the community, affectionately known as “Sleepy Stonham” by residents, after the assault which officers believe was sexually motivated.

Officers are also stressing that while assaults of this nature are rare in the county, women should avoid unlit areas at night, and where possible walk in groups.

The offender is described as of stocky build, 5ft 8in tall, with dark hair and wearing dark clothing.

A Suffolk Constabulary spokeswoman said: “A team of six officers continue to make enquiries. They are keen to identify everyone who was drinking in the nearby pub, The Magpie, on the evening of the incident.

“Two men, who have still not been traced, are being urged to get in touch with police in case they hold any information which may help with the investigation.”

The first man is described as white, in his mid-30s, with short mousy dark hair, and is around 5ft 7in tall. He had a circular tattoo on his left arm near to his wrist and was wearing a red and blue polo shirt, tracksuit bottoms and white trainers.

The second man is described as white, in his late 50s to 60s, with grey or white straggly hair, and around five feet five inches tall. He was wearing glasses.

It is thought both males spoke with a Lancashire accent and detective Inspector David Rutterford, who is overseeing the enquiry, said: “We are taking this incident extremely seriously and would urge anyone with information to get in touch with us immediately.

“We are particularly keen to trace the two males who had a meal and a game of pool in the Magpie pub. We don't believe they were involved with the incident, but we would like them to get in touch in case they have any information that may help us with our investigation.”

Anyone with information should contact Suffolk police officers on 01473 613500.

Did you witness this attack? Call The Evening Star newsdesk on 01473 324788 or e-mail starnews@eveningstar.co.uk.