Woman ‘raped in woodland near cemetery’ in broad daylight | UK | News

Police have launched an investigation into the alleged rape of a woman in the Telford area on Christmas Eve. West Mercia Police received a report on Monday, January 19, alleging a woman in her 20s had been raped in woodland near Castle Green Cemetery in the village of Ironbridge.

The alleged incident was said to have occurred between 9.45am and 11.25am on December 24th. Officers are trying to identify a man believed to be the suspect, described as white, with short black hair and 6 feet tall.

It was stated that he was wearing dark jeans and a black jacket during the reported incident.

Detective Constable Victoria Periton, of West Mercia Police, said: “I understand this news may be distressing to the local community. Please be assured that we are taking the incident extremely seriously and are pursuing all lines of inquiry.”

“Officers are working hard to identify the suspect and we would appeal to anyone who was in the area between 9.45am and 11.25am on Christmas Eve or knows who the suspect is to contact police immediately.

“I would ask people not to speculate and we would encourage anyone with any concerns to speak to officers.”

He added that the victim was supported by specialist trained officers.

Everyone with knowledge is called to them by the force. They can do this by emailing telfordCID@westmercia.police.uk quoting incident number 328i of 19 January 2026.

Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.