Devon and Cornwall Police have launched an urgent appeal to identify a man following a sexual assault outside a popular seaside nightclub in the early hours of Saturday morning.
The incident occurred at Park Lane nightclub in Torquay, Devon, when a male suspect initially approached a woman inside the venue and attempted to dance with her before she moved away. The man then followed her outside where she was sitting away from the club and sexually assaulted her.
Officers have now released CCTV images of a man they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries into the attack, which took place on Saturday, 19 July.
A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: “We are appealing for the public’s assistance identifying this man following a sexual assault in Torquay. A male suspect approached a woman in a nightclub in the early hours of Saturday 19 July and attempted to dance with her.
The spokesperson added: “A short while later he again approached her, this time away from the venue while she was sat outside of Park Lane and sexually assaulted her. It is believed the man pictured may be able to help with enquiries.”
Popular Nightspot in Tourist Town
Park Lane is one of Torquay’s most popular nighttime venues, situated just a short walk from the town’s harbourside and centre. The trendy bar and nightclub consists of four stylishly decorated rooms and a private roof terrace, regularly hosting club nights and private events.
The venue is part of the JAM Leisure Group, which operates six premises in the area and has recently worked with local authorities on safety initiatives. All JAM Leisure venues have been certified under the Shout-Up! scheme, which provides training to staff on recognising and preventing sexual misconduct.
Victoria Godfrey, General Manager for JAM Leisure, previously stated: “Sexual misconduct is an unsettling problem people are having to face in late-night industries. No one should have to work or go out in fear of sexual abuse.”
Rising Concerns Over Nightlife Safety
The incident comes amid ongoing efforts by Devon and Cornwall Police and local authorities to improve safety in Torquay’s night-time economy. Recent crime statistics show that violence and sexual offences are the most commonly reported crimes in the Devon and Cornwall Police area, with approximately 32 reports per 1,000 daytime population.
Torbay Council has been working with venues to implement various safety measures, including the Best Bar None scheme aimed at improving standards in licensed premises. The local Community Safety Partnership has also introduced taxi marshals, improved lighting in nightlife areas, and supported the work of Torbay Street Pastors.
Earlier this year, training sessions were delivered by police and the Sexual Assault Referral Centre to bar and door staff across Torquay’s nightlife venues. The sessions aimed to educate staff on identifying predatory sexual behaviours and recognising potentially vulnerable individuals during nights out.
Wider Campaign Against Sexual Violence
The assault follows ongoing campaigns by Safer Communities Torbay under their “Are You OK” branding, which aims to challenge attitudes towards sexual violence and support victims. The initiative is backed by multiple partners including Devon and Cornwall Police, the Sexual Assault Referral Centre, and Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services.
Local authorities have emphasised that victims of sexual assault are never to blame, with campaigns specifically designed to challenge perpetrator behaviour rather than focusing on victim actions. Support services are available for anyone affected by sexual violence, regardless of gender.
Police Appeal for Information
Devon and Cornwall Police are urging anyone with information about the incident or who recognises the man in the CCTV images to come forward immediately. The force has emphasised the importance of public assistance in identifying the individual who may hold crucial information about the assault.
Members of the public with any information are asked to call 101 or visit the Devon and Cornwall Police website, quoting reference number 50250186094.
The investigation remains ongoing as officers continue to gather evidence and review additional CCTV footage from the area. Police patrols in Torquay’s nightlife district have been increased following the incident, with officers working closely with venue security staff to ensure public safety.
Support for Victims
Support services are available for anyone affected by sexual assault through the Sexual Assault Referral Centre and Devon Rape Crisis. These organisations provide confidential support and can assist victims whether or not they choose to report incidents to police.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges facing authorities in ensuring safety in night-time economy areas, despite significant investment in preventative measures and staff training across the hospitality sector.
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