A local man has been charged following two alleged sexual assaults in parks near Milnrow on Saturday morning, police have confirmed.
Charges and court appearance
Harvey Symes, aged 23, of Simeon Street in Milnrow, has been charged with two counts of attempted rape and with making threats to kill. He is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates' Court tomorrow, according to the charging notice.
Incidents reported at two parks
Greater Manchester Police say the incidents happened at two different green spaces in the early hours:
- Broadfield Park – first incident reported to police at about 6.15am on Saturday
- Milnrow Memorial Park – second incident reported at about 8.38am the same morning
Both women provided similar descriptions of the attacker and officers say the suspect was previously unknown to the victims.
| Location | Reported time | Allegation |
|---|---|---|
| Broadfield Park | c. 6.15am | Attempted rape |
| Milnrow Memorial Park | c. 8.38am | Attempted rape |
Community and safety
News of the charges will be of concern to local residents who use these parks for walking and exercise. Police enquiries remain ongoing and anyone with information or footage that might assist the investigation has been asked to contact Greater Manchester Police. It is common in such investigations for officers to seek any CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone video taken in the area around the times given.
For people wanting practical safety reminders: try to travel in pairs when possible in quieter hours, keep mobile phones charged, and familiarise yourself with the quickest route to well-lit streets. If you witness an incident or are the victim of an assault, contact the police immediately. If you need support following an assault, organisations such as local sexual violence services can provide confidential help and advice.
What happens next
Symes will appear at magistrates' court as part of the formal legal process. Charges do not amount to a conviction and will be considered by the courts. Greater Manchester Police continue to investigate and have not announced further details about the alleged offences.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Greater Manchester Police quoting the relevant incident details, or to use the independent charity Crimestoppers if they wish to remain anonymous.
