Police are urgently appealing for information after a woman in her 20s was allegedly raped at a popular seaside holiday destination in West Sussex.
The reported attack occurred between 11.10pm on Sunday, April 20, and 12.45am on Monday, April 21, at Hotham Park in Bognor Regis. The 22-acre park is located just a short distance from the town’s seafront promenade, Butlin’s holiday resort, and the University of Chichester.
The victim is being supported by specially-trained officers while Sussex Police continue their investigation to locate the alleged attacker.
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.”
DCI Cobbett stressed that reports of rape are taken extremely seriously and urged anyone with information to come forward. Police are particularly appealing to anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious or who has relevant CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage from the area during the time of the incident.
District Commander William Keating-Jones added:
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.”
Bognor Regis, a well-known traditional seaside resort, attracts more than 385,000 visitors each year.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Sussex Police online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Westbeach.
Further support for victims of rape and
