Shropshire man in court over New Year's Day rape
A man had been charged with rape following an alleged incident in Oswestry during the early hours of New Year's Day.
Howard Long, 31, of Melverley, near Oswestry, appeared at Telford Magistrates Court this morning and entered no plea to a charge of rape and two further charges of attempted rape.
They follow an alleged incident near Morda, Oswestry.
He was remanded in custody to appear at Shrewsbury Crown Court on March 9.
The victim, who is from Oswestry, was walking from the town centre on the B5069 in the direction of Welshpool between 2.30am and 3.20am.
She was taken to Royal Shrewsbury hospital for treatment.
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, December 31 2014 and Saturday, January 3 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."
Police closed the B5069 from the Morda crossroads to the junction with the A483 on New Years Day and for part of January 2 while they carried out investigations.
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.
