Man raped in Broadfield Park

Broadfield Park, Rochdale

A 36-year-old man was raped in Broadfield Park on Tuesday (1 November).

The victim was sat on a bench in Broadfield Park when he was approached by two unknown men at about 6.30pm. After a brief verbal exchange, the man was raped by one of the men while the other restrained him.

The offenders were distracted when two passers-by shouted at them. They then ran off in the direction of the Broadfield Hotel, the same direction from which they came.

The bench where the incident took place is located on the path which runs alongside Sparrow Hill.

An investigation has been launched and the victim is being offered support by specially-trained officers.

Police are keen to speak with the man and woman who distracted the offenders, and anyone else who was in the park around that time.

The first offender is described as Asian, of large build, in his late 20s or early 30s, with black hair, and a goatee beard.

He was wearing dark clothing and footwear that was red at the heel and around the sole, white towards the front around the sole, and navy blue across the top and front.

The second offender is described as Asian, in his late 20s or early 30s, clean shaven, and of large build.

He was wearing a grey hoodie with Nike written across the chest, grey jogging pants, possibly with a tick logo near the left hip, and white boxer shorts with small, sporadic red checks.

Detective Inspector Damian Simpson, of GMP’s Serious Sexual Offences Unit, said: “This was a ruthless attack which terrified the victim and caused him lasting emotional distress.

“I am appealing to the two witnesses who disrupted the offenders to please get in touch.

“Your actions are likely to have saved the victim from suffering even further at the hands of his attackers and your co-operation could be of significant value to our investigation.

“In addition, I would ask that anyone else who was in the park at that time, or anyone who recognises the description of either offender, to please contact us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or 0161 856 1911 and quote the reference number 2422 01/11/16. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.