Churchyard sealed off after woman is raped
TWO men have been arrested after a woman was raped outside a church, police have said. Officers were called to St Mary’s, in Churchgate, Stockport, during the early hours of Christmas Eve. The churchyard was sealed off following reports the woman had been raped in front of the church.
TWO men have been arrested after a woman was allegedly raped outside a church.
Police said that around 8.05am on Christmas Eve officers were called to reports that a woman had been raped St Mary’s, Churchgate, Stockport during the early hours.
They said a woman in her 30s had been taken to hospital and was being supported by specially trained officers.
Two men, aged 44 and 57 were arrested on suspicion of rape and remained in custody for questioning as the Express went to press.
They said the area was sealed off as forensic officers conducted inquiries.
As officers worked on the scene on Monday morning a foil blanket and other clothes could be seen at the entrance to the church.
There was also broken glass strewn over the churchyard but is not clear if this is related to the police investigation or if it had been there previously.
Extra police arrived at the church throughout Monday morning to help with the investigation.
Two PCSOs were on duty to maintain the cordon from members of the public as multiple officers worked on the scene.
The church is in the centre of Stockport near the Market Hall, shops, pubs and a barbers.
Detective inspector Julia Bowden, of GMP’s Stockport borough, said: “We have launched a full investigation and have specially trained officers supporting the victim as she receives treatment in hospital.
“While we believe this is an isolated incident and have two men in custody, our investigation is in the very early stages.
“I would encourage anyone who thinks they might have even the smallest piece of information that could assist our investigation to please get in touch as soon as possible.”
Anyone with information should call police on 101 quoting reference number 405 of 24/12/2018.