North Yorkshire Police are appealing for witnesses and information about an assault on a female dog walker in Harrogate.
The incident occurred on The Stray at about 10.30pm on Friday 23 December 2011 when the woman was approached by four men.
As well as abusive language, the victim said the men pushed her to the ground and both she and her dog were subjected to an assault.
PC Ben Ralston, of the Harrogate Safer Neighbourhood Team, said:
Whilst this was an isolated and unusual incident for Harrogate, it was nevertheless very disturbing for the victim who has been left shaken and upset by the ordeal.
Thankfully the woman and her dog did not suffer serious injuries, however, it is vital that the men involved are tracked down and brought to justice for this attack.
Extensive police enquiries have been ongoing since the incident. Officers have also delivered leaflets to household in the local area with the intention of jogging people’s memories about any suspicious activity near The Stray last Friday night.
The description of the suspects is that they were white, aged in their early twenties and were dressed in smart jeans and t-shirts for a night out. Following the assault they walked off in the direction of Parliament Street.
PC Ralston added:
I am appealing for any witnesses to the assault to come forward as soon as possible, or anyone who may have information that could help the investigation.
Somebody out there knows who was responsible, so please do the decent thing and contact the police or Crimestoppers without delay.
If you can assist the investigation please contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for PC Ben Ralston or Harrogate Police Station.
Information can also be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111. Please quote reference number 12110215800.
Being a dog walker myself on the stray – there are numerous places where the lighting is simply not adequate. Perhaps the coucil could look into this as this could dissuade such attacks from taking place.