Police release photo of hammer used in Whittington assault

Detective Constable Nick Williams, who is investigating the incident, also released a photograph of the hammer believed used in the attack, which happened on the canal towpath at Hindford, near Whittington, on Tuesday 7 June 2011.

The victim, who is in her 40s, had just left the Jack Mytton public house when she was attacked at about 9.10pm by a woman walking in the opposite direction.

She was struck on the head several times but managed to get away and raise the alarm at a nearby canal barge. The offender ran off along the towpath and despite an extensive police search, was not found.

The victim was kept in hospital overnight but was fortunately not seriously injured.

DC Williams said the attack appeared to have been completely unprovoked and the hammer used by the offender unusual and distinctive.

“We have released a photograph of the hammer in the hope that someone may recognise it or know where it came from, which could in turn potentially help us identify the offender,” he said.

“The hammer is currently undergoing forensic tests and has a wooden handle and a metal head. At one end of the head is a rubber or plastic cap although the similar one that would have been on the other end is missing, suggesting it may be a specialist tool for a particular type of work.

“It appears to have been well-used and anyone who might recognise it is asked to get in touch.”

The offender is described as white, of slim build and about 5ft 7in in height. She had ‘lank’, jaw-length blonde hair with a fringe and layers cut into it and was wearing a green parker-style jacket and jeans.

Anyone who knows her identity or recognises the description or the hammer used is asked to contact police on 0300 333 3000.

Information can also be passed on anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where a reward is sometimes offered.