Man charged following sexual assault in Morda
A 31-year-old-man from Melverley has been charged with rape and two further charges of attempted rape following an incident on New Year's Day.
The charges relate to an incident that happened in the early hours of Thursday 1 January 2015 in Morda, near Oswestry.
Howard Edward Long appeared at Telford Magistrates Court this morning and was remanded in custody until his next appearance on a date to be confirmed.
Detective Chief Inspector Peter Davies, investigating, said: "I'm pleased to confirm that this man has been charged, however our investigative work into this incident has not stopped.
"We are still trying to locate the victim’s red patent handbag that has a shoulder strap. If anyone in Morda or the surrounding areas finds it then they should contact the police immediately.
"We are also appealing for anyone who saw Howard Long between Wednesday 31 December 2014 and Saturday 3 January 2015 to make contact if the police have not already spoken with them.
"I want to take this opportunity to reassure local people that offences such as these are extremely rare, and encourage anyone with any other information about this incident to come forward with the details as soon as they can.
"Anyone who believes they may have information about this incident is asked to contact West Mercia Police on 101, quoting incident number 265S 010115. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 555 111."
