Avon and Somerset Police are appealing for two men, who supported a victim of sexual assault in Bath while officers were on their way to the scene, to contact them.

The assault took place on Victoria Bridge Road in Bath in the early hours of the morning on Friday, 7th April. The attacker was described as of slight build and was wearing a black top and red cap. Two men then helped the victim.

Detective Inspector Adam Bunting said: “The victim has been left traumatised by what has happened and we are ensuring she has access to expert help and advice.

“Attacks of this kind are extremely rare in Bath and I would like to reassure people we are carrying out a full and thorough investigation.

“As part of our inquiry, we are reviewing CCTV footage and have carried out house-to-house enquiries. Specialist crime scene investigators have also examined the scene, while neighbourhood officers are patrolling the area.

“Officers arrived within minutes of the incident being reported to us, but during that time, the victim was helped by two men who were passing by. We are now asking them to contact us, as we are keen to speak to them.

“I would also like to appeal to anyone who was in the Victoria Bridge Road area around 5 a.m. who saw or heard anything suspicious to get in touch via the 24-hour Enquiry Centre by calling 101, reference 5217076623.”

A thirty-year-old man was arrested in connection with the incident and has been released under investigation.

Victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or non-recent, can self-refer to The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre available 24/7, 365 days a year. Visit their website at: www.thebridgecanhelp.org.uk or call: 0117 342 6999.

For advice on how to keep yourself safe, you can visit: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/advice/crime-prevention-advice/dealing-with-threats-and-hate-crime/keeping-yourself-safe/

You can also visit: www.thisisnotanexcuse.org for details of charities and organisations who are experts in supporting victims