Man charged in connection with attempted rape of woman

Date published: 13 October 2009

A man has been charged in connection with the attempted rape of a woman in Bury.

Anestis Soumelidis (age 27) of Kitchener Street appeared at Bury Magistrates' Court on Monday 12 October 2009 and has been remanded in custody.

At about 3.30pm on Sunday 11 October 2009, a 25-year-old woman, who was in the toilets of the Wellington Public House, was approached by a man who grabbed her by the throat and hair and attempted to rape her.

After a short struggle the woman was able to fight off her attacker.

Detective Inspector Lynne Vernon said: "Anyone who has been a victim of rape or sexual assault can contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050 or 999 in an emergency.

"We have specially trained officers in place to provide a first class response to victims and help support them through the criminal justice process."

St Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester, can also be contacted on 0161 276 6515.

This provides a comprehensive and coordinated forensic, counselling and medical aftercare service to anyone in Greater Manchester who has experienced rape or sexual assault.

Services are available on a 24-hour basis and people can access them either as a self-referral or via Greater Manchester Police.