Kentish Gazette Canterbury & District
Woman in tears after man exposed himself on path
Couple stop to comfort victim after ordeal Exclusive
A young woman was left shocked and crying after a man indecently exposed himself to her on a city cycle path.
It happened on the Great Stour Way near the back of the Morrisons supermarket, which the 21-year-old victim had just left and was heading towards the city centre.
A couple out cycling saw a man loitering and acting suspiciously on a bank beside the path.
They rode on but soon passed a woman carrying her shopping and walking in his direction.
But the couple, who did not want to be identified, became concerned for her welfare and decided to turn around and go back.
They found her distressed and tearful and she told them the man had indecently exposed himself.
One of the cyclists, who did not want to be named, said: “There was something not right about his demeanour.
“He just looked dodgy hanging around.
“It was getting dark and we both thought we should go back and check on the girl who was walking his way.
“She was obviously upset and we reported it to the police and escorted her into the city centre, where she met friends and was safe.”
The offence happened at about 8pm on Sunday, April 13.
Police have a potential clue to the offender after one of the couple out jogging with her sister the following day saw the suspect again near the same location and managed to snatch a photograph of him on her phone.
He is described as being dark- skinned, of possible Middle Eastern or African origin, aged in his early 20s and this time was riding a BMX bike.
Police spokesman Jane Walker said: “The photograph is currently being circulated to officers to see if they recognise him. PC Jodie Bryan is investigating so if anyone has information please contact Kent Police on 101. Giving reference ZY/11880/14.”
Sheila Webb, who is a cycle ranger for Sustrans for the Great Stour Way, said: “I am sorry to hear of this poor woman’s experience.
“I have been doing a survey and many women say they like using the path because they feel safe, largely because it is quite open and busy.
“We don’t want anything like this to put people off and I shall be circulating the description among Spokes members and talking to our local community police officer about it.”