SUMMONING every ounce of her courage, she walks past the gates of Christchurch Park in Ipswich every week - but will never step inside.For that was the place where Rachel, whose name has been changed to protect her anonymity, claims she was indecently assaulted.

By Tracey Sparling

SUMMONING every ounce of her courage, she walks past the gates of Christchurch Park in Ipswich every week - but will never step inside.

For that was the place where Rachel, whose name has been changed to protect her anonymity, claims she was indecently assaulted.

The 29-year-old from Chantry got chatting to a man on a park bench in front of the mansion, who she swapped telephone numbers with, and she said he then touched her.

Rachel remains shocked at the ten-minute ordeal, and anxious to warn others never to swap phone numbers with strangers like she did.

She said: "We were just passing the time of day. He asked me if I'd had a good day and I said 'It's been all right. I said 'what about you?' and he said it hadn't been bad.

"I stupidly gave him my number and he put it on his mobile phone. Then he moved nearer and started kissing me and touching me. It was over my clothes but it still wasn't nice.

"I've bought a rape alarm now but I can't go in the park any more. I'm worried about what might happen to other girls, and want to warn them not to give their telephone number out."

A police spokeswoman said "We would always advise all lone females to be vigilant and not give out their personal details, unless they are completely satisfied that the person they are talking to, is safe.

"A full investigation has taken place and a man was initially arrested to help with inquiries, but no further police action is being taken.

"The case is ongoing and we are appealing for witnesses."