Woman raped on walking trail in Barnsley as police hunt masked man in black gloves

Woman raped on walking trail in Barnsley as police hunt masked man in black gloves A police investigation is underway after a woman was raped on the Trans Pennine Trail, near Bolton-upon-Dearne, Barnsley, with an appeal made to the public for information Police are hunting a masked man after a woman was raped on a popular walking trail in South Yorkshire. South Yorkshire Police said the incident took place on the Trans Pennine Trail, between Mexborough Road and Harlington Road, near Bolton-upon-Dearne, Barnsley, at about 2.50pm on Wednesday. Forensic teams have been seen gathering evidence inside the cordon and appeal has been made for anyone with information about the incident to come forward. A statement from the force read: "We are appealing for information and witnesses after a woman was raped in Barnsley. "At 2.50pm yesterday (Wednesday 4 November), we received a report that a woman had been raped on a section of the Trans Pennine Trail between Mexborough Road and Harlington Road, near Bolton-upon-Dearne. "The victim is receiving support and care from officers and medical professionals, and there will be officers in the local area carrying out further enquiries and additional patrols as our investigation progresses. "The suspect is described as of tall and stocky build and was wearing a dark jumper sweatshirt, black gloves and a black face covering. He is believed to have spoken with a southern accent." Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Helen Hughes said: "We are continuing to work with the victim to ensure that she is receiving the best possible care and support at this traumatic time. "I appreciate that news of this incident will cause concern within the local community and we have a committed team dedicated to finding the person responsible for this horrific attack. "A scene is currently in place on the Trans Pennine Trail to allow for officers to gather forensic evidence and conduct further enquiries. If you were in the local area at the time and saw something that didn't feel right, please contact us. "Did you see someone matching the description of the suspect? Do you have information which you think could be relevant? If so, please get in touch immediately. "If you have any concerns, please speak to officers in your local community to report information or to raise any issues you have as they are there to help you and keep you safe." A statement from the force added: "You can get in touch with us by calling 101 or reporting via our website. Please quote incident number 550 of 4 November 2026 when you get in touch. You can also report information to us anonymously via Crimestoppers. You can call them on the freephone number 0800 555 111 or by submitting a form via their website."