Police increase patrols following attempted rape at Babbs Mill

POLICE have issued an urgent appeal for information following the attempted rape of an 11-year-old girl in Kingshurst.
Officers are conducting patrols at Babbs Mill Park, following the attack last Friday (June 29).
In a harrowing incident, which took place in broad daylight, a girl was knocked to the ground by a dog-walker and suffered a cut to the neck from a knife.
She was taken to hospital and has since been discharged. West Midlands Police said this afternoon that she is now being supported by specially- trained officers.
The assault happened at some time between 2.30pm-2.50pm, and detectives are now attempting to identify the man.
He is described as white, slightly tanned, with short brown/greying hair. He has blue eyes, large hands and a muscular, stocky build.
The suspect was with a white King Charles spaniel, which had light brown patches on its ears and body. The dog had a red collar and red extendable lead.
A number of items have already been recovered for forensic testing and officers are also exploring another recent incident to see if it is connected.
Chief Inspector Colin Barnes, from Solihull Police, said: "We fully understand the concern that this nasty attack has caused in the community.
"We’re working flat out to identify the person responsible and bring them to justice, with officers working through CCTV and carrying out house-to-house enquiries.
"We’re liaising with schools and the local authority, and people can also expect to see extra uniformed patrols in and around the area.
"I’d encourage anyone with concerns or information that might help us to speak to officers."
Anyone with information can call officers on 101; quoting crime number 20SH/145636Y/18. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.