A GROUP of protesters have gone onto the streets to speak up about concerns for women's safety in Evesham after a woman was 'brutally attacked' earlier this month. 

The protesters gathered on Port Street today (October 19), the street where the incident happened, to raise their voices and call on the police to make the street safer for women. 

More than 30 people joined the protest with placards saying "Justice for Carrie".

Carrie Thomas, was attacked on her way home in the early hours of Sunday October 6 on Port Street. 

She was left with a cracked skull and a bleed on the brain. 

Campaigners say this is at least the eighth incident on Port Street in the last 13 years. 

The issue was also brought up at an Evesham Town Council meeting on October 14. 

During the meeting, councillors were asked for recommendations to address the issue. 

Councillors agreed to set up a meeting with campaigners to discuss the issue further and also talked about funding rape alarms in pubs and subsidising taxis for women and young girls.

(Image: Newsquest)

Police have promised to be open with the community about what they are doing to address this issue. 

West Mercia chief inspector Paul Harvey has written an open letter to all the residents of Evesham. 

In the letter, the chief inspector says: "We are aware from our work with the Evesham community of a feeling of unsafety in the Bengeworth area of the town.  
 
"I want to be open with you about the perception of crime in the area, the facts and, importantly, what we are doing to help you both be safe and feel safe.

"Over the summer right up until now we have seen a reduction in reported crimes involving violence against women and girls (VAWG) across the whole town.

"I understand that Port Street has been an area of particular concern for the community so want to be completely open about the reported crimes in the area.

"Since July there have been five crimes reported on the road linked to VAWG; three domestic related crimes, one assault linked to disorder in a pub and a dog bite.

"All of these crimes have been investigated.  
 
"Please know that if you are a victim of a crime you can come to us in confidence and all matters will be thoroughly investigated.

"We will also ensure you know what support is available to you.  

"Working with our partners, we’re doing all we can to understand fears and concerns in the area, particularly those of women and girls. 
 
"As part of our ongoing work across the whole town, we are working with our partners to look at the Bengeworth area to consider any improvements that may be necessary and could help you feel safer.

"This includes reviewing CCTV and lighting.  

"As well as reaching out directly to your local policing team you can also use the StreetSafe service to report areas where you don’t feel safe – such as poorly lit alleyways that make you feel unsafe, or where there is vandalism.  

"Crimes should be reported directly to the police, which you can do via our website but, of course, in an emergency call 999.   
 
"Please keep talking to us."