Dog walker stabbed in morning assault

The 52 year-old woman was walking her dog along the Mineral Line pathway near to the former pit site in Thurcroft at around 11am yesterday (Monday April 20).

The woman is reported to have reached the bridge that crosses over Steadfolds Lane and turned around to walk back along the path, when an unknown man approached her from behind.

A South Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said the man reportedly assaulted the woman, punching her twice in the back.

“The woman managed to kick out at the suspect, pulling him to the ground,” the spokeswoman added.

“The man is then believed to have run away in the direction of the bridge.

“The woman was taken to hospital to receive treatment for her injuries, which were discovered to be stab wounds that are not thought to be life-threatening.”

The man is described as being around 5ft 11ins tall, in his late 20s to early 30s, of skinny build with a scruffy appearance. He is described as being olive-skinned with short dark brown hair and stubble.

He is reported to have been wearing a light blue football shirt with a white band or motif across the chest, with grey scruffy jogging pants, white socks, black trainers and smelled of smoke.

An 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault and has been bailed pending further enquiries.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who was in the area between 10.30am and 11.30am on Monday morning, is asked to call 101 quoting incident number 321 of April 20.

Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.