Police investigate reported Christmas Eve rape in Ironbridge

Detectives have launched an investigation after a report that a woman was raped in a forest area near Castle Green Cemetery off Lincoln Hill in Ironbridge on Christmas Eve.

The incident is said to have happened on Wednesday 24 December between 9.45am and 11.25am. West Mercia Police received the report on Monday 19 January.

The victim, a woman in her 20s, is currently being supported by specialist officers.

Police are now looking to identify a man they believe is the suspect. He is described as white, around 5ft 10in tall, with short dark hair. He was wearing dark jeans and a black coat at the time of the incident.

Detective Constable Victoria Periton said: “I understand that this news may be unsettling for the local community. Please be assured that we’re treating the incident incredibly seriously and are following all lines of enquiry.

“Officers are working hard to identify the suspect, and we would ask anyone who was in the area on Christmas Eve between 9.45am and 11.25am, or may know who the suspect is, to please contact police immediately.

“I would ask people not to speculate, and we’d encourage anyone with any concerns to speak to officers. The victim is being supported by specialist trained officers.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police by email telfordCID@westmercia.police.uk quoting incident number 328i of January 19, 2026.

Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting crimestoppers-uk.org