A WOMAN has issued a stark warning to the public after being attacked by a group on men whilst running on her own near Castle Park.

The victim, Cait Smith, was assaulted while out near the lower section of the Colchester park on Tuesday evening.

After the assault she took to Facebook and posted a series of pictures of her injuries, issuing a warning to others who walk alone in the area.

Her post has been shared more than 3,000 times.

It said: “Colchester people walking alone at night round the bottom of Castle Park area please be very aware.

“Late last night I was attacked by some men when I went on my run.

“It’s known to not be the safest area and I now know just how unsafe it is. The police have been informed.

“Women shouldn’t have to not go out at night because of fear that they’re going to assaulted.

“Luckily I am ok but it could have been a lot worse and the next girl might not be so fortunate. Be careful.”

Gazette: The woman was attacked whilst running near Castle Park. Picture: Facebook

She has received hundreds of comments of support from members of the public.

Read more:

Ward councillor Mark Goacher (Green, Castle) described the incident as “outrageous”.

He said: “It is another incident which shows the problem of male violence against women, some of whom feel unsafe to go out on the streets.

“Women should not be scared to go out on their own in Colchester.

“There is a problem in our society. We need to tackle the fact there are a proportion of the male population in our society who deem it acceptable to intimidate or physically harm women like this.

“It is not the responsibility of the women to change their behaviour.”

Simon Crow (Con, Castle) added: “We are very lucky to have such a beautiful park here in Colchester that so many people enjoy visiting so I’m horrified to hear about this appalling attack on a young woman out for a run on her own.

“I wish her a speedy recovery from her injuries from what must have been a very frightening and traumatic incident. And I urge anyone who has any information about her attackers to contact the police.”