Police appeal for help after woman is raped in Slough Crematorium and Cemetery

A woman was taken to hospital after being raped in Slough Crematorium and Cemetery yesterday evening (Monday).

At about 6.30pm the woman, in her 50s, was at the cemetery in Stoke Road when she was struck by a man from behind, causing her to fall to the floor.

The man then raped the victim before running off in the direction of Stoke Road.

The victim sustained injuries to her head. She managed to leave the scene in her car and sought help outside the entrance of the crematorium.

Two people stopped to help her and she was taken to Wexham Park Hospital for treatment.

The offender is described as slim and was wearing a black cap with some white on it, a black top with some white on it, black trousers and trainers.

Investigating officer, Detective Inspector Stuart Brangwin, said: “The victim is being supported by specially trained officers and a full investigation is underway.

“I would like to speak to anyone who saw or heard anything area of the crematorium last night. You may have seen someone entering or leaving the crematorium, or a man in the vicinity.

“Any detail, no matter how insignificant it may seem to you, could help with the investigation, so please contact police as soon as possible.”

Superintendant Gavin Wong, Slough LPA Commander, said: “A scene watch has been in place since last night and our officers have been in the area, with increased presence continuing today.

“While this is, of course, a terrible incident to have happened, I would like to reassure the local community that a thorough investigation is underway and our teams are working to track down the offender.

“If residents have any concerns, please speak to your local neighbourhood officers.

“We are mindful that the cemetery and crematorium is a public place and are working to ensure minimal disruption for services and visitors while our investigation is conducted."

A Slough Borough Council spokesman said: “We can confirm that a serious incident took place at Slough Cemetery and Crematorium yesterday and our thoughts are with the victim and her family.

“The council is working closely with the police and would like to reassure residents that all security measures at the crematorium are being reviewed.

“The cemetery and crematorium is a public place and together with the police, we have put plans in place to ensure minimal disruption to services and visitors while the investigation is conducted.

“We would like to inform residents that all funerals due to take place at Slough Cemetery and Crematorium today and over the next few days will take place as usual.”

Call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.