Thames Valley Police have launched an investigation after an elderly woman was assaulted in the walkway beneath the railway bridge in Oxford. The underpass has remained open to the public while renovations to Botley Road are carried out.

Police say they are looking into a reported attack that occurred between 8:05pm and 8:10pm on Saturday, March 28.

The assault took place in the tunnel bridge, which the public has been using while Network Rail progresses its £237 million scheme to revamp the railway station, swap out the rail bridge and enhance cycling routes.

Detectives are now calling on the community to help track down the individual suspected of carrying out the assault.

PC Robert Lawton, serving with the Oxford detachment, said officers are investigating an assault on Botley Road, Oxford, on Saturday, March 28. This took place specifically within and around the tunnel where the railway station bridge is undergoing renovation. The public’s help is being sought. Anyone who saw a man attacking an elderly woman should get in touch.

The suspect is described as a man who may be around 19 years old, approximately 6 feet in height and of white background. He was wearing jeans and a dark-coloured top.

PC Lawton added that anyone able to provide information should call 101 or use the online reporting system, quoting reference 43260152602.

Members of the public can also share information anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.

Botley Road closed in early 2023 and is anticipated to reopen by the end of August. The scheme has had an impact on drivers, walkers, train services and local firms, and has suffered several significant setbacks.