Colchester: Police investigating Mercury Theatre toilets 'incident'

Officers were contacted after the altercation in the female toilets at the Mercury Theatre during the interval for a show. 

Essex Police says when the person entered the toilet "they were challenged by a woman" and subsequently "they shouted at her, leaving her feeling unsafe." 

Sarah Hill, 55, of Old Heath, Colchester, claims a tall, well-built man had entered the toilets.

Ms Hill said: "He leaned down into my face and shouted that he was coming in.

“He refused to leave and I stepped aside allowing him in, fearing for my safety.

“The other women in the toilet clearly also felt very uncomfortable and didn't want him there."

Theatre - inside Mercury Theatre (Image: Credited) Ms Hill informed staff at the theatre who advised her she could use the disabled toilets if needed.

The police have asked for anyone with further information to come forward.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “We are investigating a reported incident inside the toilets of the Mercury Theatre in Colchester.

“It was reported someone had entered the women’s toilets shortly after 5pm on 21 September.

The force - two police officers (Image: Essex Police)

“It was report that when they were challenged by a woman in the toilets they shouted at her, leaving her feeling unsafe.

“If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.”

The force has advised anyone with information to contact the police and quote the crime reference number 42/149427/24.

A spokesman for Mercury Theatre said: “We are aware of the customer in question. She spoke to our duty manager on the day and then went through our complaints procedure via email.

“The last correspondence we sent was on October 8 and have since heard nothing from her. We were not aware she has contacted police as they have not been in touch with us directly on any matter.

“We also have not received any comments, feedback or complaints from any other audience members visiting us that day.

“The Mercury operates no differently to other public buildings across Colchester city and the county.

“We adhere to current national equality legislation and our safeguarding policies are in line with Essex county and national policy.

“Our staff are available to offer support and guidance for all of our audiences and users.”