Women have been urged to adopt a “common-sense approach” to personal safety as police continue their hunt for a sex attacker in Cupar.
Detectives confirmed yesterday that they were investigating a report of a serious sexual assault against a 27-year-old woman in the Duffus Park area of the town on Sunday night. They are particularly keen to speak with anyone who was in the area between 7pm and 10pm.
The focus of police activity was on the tree-lined, potholed track that runs from Cupar Sports Centre and Elmwood College towards Balgarvie Crescent alongside the Howe of Fife rugby pitches.
This relatively secluded area was taped off all day as police carried out an examination of the scene and questioned passers-by.
Detective Inspector Graham Fenton is leading the inquiry. He said: “The Duffus Park is a popular area for people walking their dogs and is regularly frequented by young drivers who use the car park as a meeting point.
“Such instances in the local area are extremely rare. However, in response there will be increased police presence in the vicinity. I would urge anyone who was in the area on Sunday night to contact the police by calling 101 or through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Several people in Cupar told The Courier they would now think twice about going out after dark until the attacker was caught.
One 37-year-old mother-of-two, who asked not to be identified, said: “As someone who uses the track frequently, both on her own at night to get to the swimming pool and during the day with her children, it is scary to think that someone could be attacked there.
“Cupar is generally a very safe place to live and, when incidents like this happen, it does make you think about your personal safety and what routes you should take.”
Asked if women should avoid going out alone after dark, a police spokesman said: “The advice is for people to take a normal common-sense approach to personal security arrangements.”
He confirmed that extra police patrols are being operated in the Duffus Park area.
UPDATE:Police investigating Cupar sex attack report say ‘no criminality’ took place