Woman raped by masked cyclist in Ascot after thousands attended royal horse race

• Unnamed woman in her twenties was attacked by ‘young white man’ last Friday

Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was raped by a masked cyclist in Ascot.

The unnamed woman in her 20s was walking on a pavement in the Berkshire town when she was attacked by a young white man wearing a “dark hooded top” last Friday.

The victim is cared for by specialized caregivers.

The perpetrator was riding a dark bicycle “that may have had yellow details,” police said.

The incident occurred between 11pm and 11.30pm, after thousands of fans attending Royal Ascot had already gone home.

A Thames Valley Police spokesman said today: “Officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward following a rape in the town of Ascot.”

“On Friday between 11pm and 11.30pm a woman was walking on a footpath near Station Hill when she was approached by a man and subsequently raped.

“The victim, a woman in her 20s, is being cared for by specially trained officers.”

“The offender is described as a white male in his early to mid-20s, of average height and slim build. He was wearing a black or dark hooded top with the hood pulled up. He was riding a dark bicycle that may have had yellow details.

“No one has been arrested yet.”

Investigating officer Detective Inspector Liam Butler said: “We are investigating this worrying incident and have carried out extensive enquiries.”

“Patrols have been increased in the area to reassure people. We are asking the public for their help and asking anyone with information to come forward.

“If you recognise the person described, who may be known in the Station Hill area, or if anyone was travelling in the area between 11pm and 11.30pm and has dashcam footage, please come forward.

“If you have any information please contact Thames Valley Police on 101 or share your information through our online pages. If you do not wish to speak to police please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”