The offender stole £50 from the victim’s pocket during the assault
18:18, 12 Jul 2026Updated 18:28, 12 Jul 2026
Padworth Common Nature Reserve where the incident took place(Image: Google Maps)
A man has reporting being raped in a car park after a stranger approached him at a nature reserve. The offender stole £50 from the victim’s pocket during the assault.
Now, Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses and dash-cam footage from the incident which occurred at Padworth Common, West Berkshire. At around 6.30pm on Thursday (July 9), police received a report that a man in his twenties was approached from behind and “raped by an unknown man” in the car park of Padworth Common Nature Reserve.
The victim is receiving support from specially trained officers. The victim has described the offender as a man who spoke with a local accent and was wearing white shoes. This is the only description police have at this time.
Lead investigating officer Detective Inspector Beverley Pearse said: “Detectives are investigating this report thoroughly and extensively. Since the rape was reported to us, we have been carrying out a number of enquiries to establish exactly what happened and identify the offender.
“As part of that ongoing investigation, we are now appealing to the public for information that may assist us. I would like to hear from anyone who may have seen this incident or part of the incident as it unfolded.
“We are particularly keen to hear from motorists with dash-cam footage recorded in the area around the time of the offence, as this may assist our investigation. Officers are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen a red vehicle in the area at the time of the incident.
“You will see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days as we continue our enquiries, provide reassurance to the community and help keep people safe. Anyone with information, or who wishes to raise any concerns, can speak to an officer in the area or contact Thames Valley Police on 101.”
Anyone who has any information is asked to contact Thames Valley Police on 101 quoting reference 43260350863 or make a report online. If you do not wish to speak directly with police, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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