Sex assault victim left shaken

THE family and friends of a teenage girl who was sexually assaulted in Banbridge last week have rallied round in support following her horrific ordeal.

The girl, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was walking in the Dunbar Road area when she was allegedly assaulted just after 7pm on Tuesday November 15.

Local people have expressed their disgust and shock after news of the assault emerged. It is understood the victim has been left shaken following the ordeal.

Upper Bann MLA Jo-Anne Dobson said she was appalled to hear what had taken place just outside the town.

“I was absolutely sickened and appalled to hear of the alleged sexual assault on a young girl in Banbridge,” said Mrs Dobson. “It is horrific that she has suffered this ordeal.

“I am sure that this young girl’s life will have been turned upside down by this attack and I know that this incident will have frightened a lot of young people in the area. I would appeal to the public to be vigilant and conscious of the dangers of walking alone, especially at a time when it is getting darker earlier.

“Local people are repulsed and shocked at this incident and we hope that this individual will be caught and brought to justice as quickly as possible.”

Mrs Dobson appealed to anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the attacker to contact police.

“I appeal to anyone who may have information, no matter how inconsequential it seems, which could lead to the apprehension of this criminal to contact the PSNI Rape Crime Unit on 028 38 366274 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.’

Speaking yesterday (Monday) police said there had been no arrests so far.