Manhunt launched after 70-year-old woman sexually assaulted near park in Bearsden

A manhunt has been launched after a 70-year-old woman was sexually assaulted while walking near a busy park in East Dunbartonshire.

Officers have launched an investigation after a man – said to be aged in his 20s – attacked the woman close to Colquhoun Park, near Station Road in Bearsden.

During the incident, which took place at about 5.15pm on Friday March 22, the man knocked his victim to the ground before sexually assaulting her.

The attacker is described as being white, about 5ft 8ins to 5ft 9ins and of a stocky build. He had a dishevelled appearance with receding brown hair and an unkempt beard.

The man was said to have been wearing dark clothing and black trainers, and spoke with a local accent.

Police have said that it is “imperative” that he is traced and are urging any dog walkers, runners, and people walking to the train station who may have been in the area to come forward.

Additional officers are patrolling the area, the force added.

Detective Inspector Neil Guy said: “It’s imperative we trace this man, and I am asking members of the public to think back and consider if they noticed him. This area is extremely busy and is well used by the community with dog walkers, runners and people walking to the train station. We have already been contacted by several people, but I am appealing to anyone who was in the area to get in touch with us.

“If anyone has any recording equipment, please check your footage, it could have images which could assist our investigation. Please pass on any information you may have, no matter how insignificant it may seem, let us judge its importance. Your information could prove vital.”

Chief inspector Brian Fraser said: “I’m aware this will be of great concern to residents, and I want to assure everyone that we are doing all we can to locate the man responsible. I have ensured additional officers are on patrol in the area for reassurance and if anyone has any concerns, please approach these officers.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 2695 of Friday, March 22, 2024. Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where you can give your information anonymously.