Police hunt Sheffield sex attacker and promise further patrols after Endcliffe Park rape

The sex attack was reported in the early hours of yesterday morning after a young woman reported being raped in a car at Endcliffe Park at around 11.30pm on Tuesday.

She told officers the sex attack occurred in a silver or grey Mercedes which had been parked in one of the spaces at the entrance to the park.

Afterwards, the attacker drove off in the car in the direction of Hunter's Bar roundabout.

He was Asian, in his 20s and wore a white T-shirt and black joggers or jeans.

A police hunt for the rapist is under way.

The sex attack came on a day huge crowds gathered in the park to enjoy the spring sunshine and easing of coronavirus lockdown restrictions, which caused outrage across city as Covid social distancing rules were breached and a sea of litter was left behind.

There were a number of incidents reported in the park including a fight and several fires.

The Mi Amigio memorial, erected in memory of American servicemen killed in a crash in the park during World War II, was also vandalised.

Police chiefs vowed to mount a special operation last night and over the weekend to prevent a repeat of Tuesday’s scenes.Commenting on the rape, Superintendent Simon Verrall, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “We know the community is already concerned about the events that unfolded in Endcliffe Park and this incident is particularly upsetting.

“Patrols are in place in the park throughout today (Wednesday), into the evening and in the coming days as we head into the Easter bank holiday weekend.

“We are working hard with our partners to address the wider issues we have seen and if anybody has any concerns, please do not hesitate to approach one of our officers. They are there to make you feel safe and to help people to enjoy Sheffield’s outdoor spaces appropriately and safely.”

Anyone with information should call call South Yorkshire Police on 101 and quote incident number 13 of March 31.

Crimestoppers can also be contacted, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

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