A FIFE village is in shock after learning of a vicious gang sexual assault on a woman, as reported in yesterday’s Courier.

The victim was walking by the B9130 Thornton to Kirkcaldy Road at around 2pm on Hogmanay when she was approached by her three attackers.

The men are described as around 25 and one of them had a bicycle.

Police refused to divulge any more information about the incident or the extent of the woman’s injuries but renewed calls for witnesses.

“We are particularly keen to speak to a young male dropped off by a silver or white car near the hump bridge on the Kirkcaldy side of the village,” said a spokeswoman.

One local woman said the attack had made her and her neighbours frightened to leave their homes.

“Thornton is a lovely wee place with a tight-knit, friendly community and you certainly never hear of anything like this happening— but this incident has really shaken the town,” she said.

“What is even more worrying is the fact that it has taken four days for the police to bring it to the attention of the public, when the people who carried out this attack are still at large.”

Local councillor Ross Vettraino also expressed his disbelief at the incident.

Describing himself as “shocked and horrified”, he added, “The fact this happened during the day means somebody must have seen something and I would call on all local people to help the police do everything in their power to catch these perpetrators.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 01592 251111.