Residents’ fears after serious sexual assault

Dog walkers in dismay after incident took place in the area

Dog walkers have shunned a popular dog walking spot after a serious sexual assault took place there earlier this week, local residents have said.

A 15-year-old girl was attacked at Laikas Walk on the outskirts of Forfar on Monday, some time between 9am and 2.30pm.

The area runs along South Street towards Kingsmuir.

Pet owners are now ditching the path for nearby parks, according to one resident.

The man, who asked not to be named, said: “Since the police appeal came out, I have noticed more people going along Kings Road to the grassy area behind there instead.

“It’s a really worrying thing to have happened. I didn’t see anything on the day and the police haven’t been round, which is a bit strange because we are so close to the walkway.”

A man was arrested in connection with the incident, which police have described as a “serious sexual assault”, but was released pending further investigation.

Macauley Holgate, who lives in a block of flats on Restenneth Drive which overlooks the area, saw police “combing the area” on the day.

He said: “There was at least a dozen officers there and I saw an ambulance as well. They were all over the area but they seemed to be focused on a bit where the path dips a bit.

“I have two kids and I take them up there for a walk there sometimes. I won’t be put off going up there again, but I imagine some people will be. The guy needs caught.”

Two dogwalkers, who asked not to be named, frequent the area and noticed it has been quieter this week.

One said: “This was a really popular spot in the height of lockdown but there has been less people this week. It’s hard to say why that is of course, as it could just be with lockdown easing that people have more options where to walk their dogs but it could be they are put off with what’s happened.

“It’s scary to hear that something so serious happened here. It’s a sad thing to happen anywhere.”

The victim walked from East High Street – via Coutties Wynd and Academy Street – towards South Street before the attack. Police have appealed for potential witnesses to come forward.

Detective Inspector Leanne Blacklaw said: “We continue to support the victim and are carrying out an in-depth investigation which includes reviewing CCTV and door-to-door inquiries.”

Meanwhile, police are continuing to investigate the unrelated rape of a 13-year-old girl in Kirriemuir.

Nobody has been charged in connection with the attack in a wooded area some time between January 13 and March 20.

Police said at the time that two men, aged between 25 and 37, approached the teen before carrying out a serious sexual assault.

Maintenance Supervisor Tony Smith raises the Union Jack on the bow of the Royal Yacht Britannia.

This comes as the Edinburgh visitor attraction reopens to members of the public on Monday.