Runner Harassed by Van in Daylight

A runner in Kidderminster reported a distressing experience of being followed and harassed by a van in broad daylight. The incident occurred as West Mercia Police initiated a new scheme called 'Jog On.' This program involves female officers disguising themselves as runners to identify and address instances of street harassment, including catcalling and sexually suggestive comments.

Charlotte Moseley, the runner who shared her ordeal, described how a van beeped its horn, returned, and followed her closely while shouting. She stated that the harassment only ceased when she pointed out the company branding on the vehicle. The 'Jog On' initiative, which began in Kidderminster in February, also engages running clubs in Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Detective Inspector Liz Warner explained that the program aims to make it clear that female runners are not seeking attention but are pursuing fitness and mental well-being. She emphasized that unwelcome comments and harassment are unacceptable interruptions to their activities. Warner noted that all vehicles stopped during the undercover operations were driven by lone men, a detail she found particularly concerning and sinister.