POLICE are appealing to taxi drivers to help them solve a city centre rape.

A 20-year-old woman reported being raped early on Saturday (December 28) after a night out in Newcastle.

She was helped into a taxi at around 2.30am at the junction of Newgate Street and Grainger Street by a man who came to her assistance.

Police are also appealing for this good Samaritan to contact them as he may have important information.

Officers also want to hear from taxi drivers working at around 2.30am who may have seen a lone woman being helped into a taxi.

Temporary Superintendent Bruce Storey said: "We're asking for help from taxi drivers and the public who may have information to contact us straightaway.

“I want to stress that this man who helped the woman into the taxi is not a suspect, but he may have vital information which could help our enquiries.

"We have extra officers out on patrol in this area to carry out enquiries and to reassure the community. Anyone who has concerns about this incident is asked to speak to an officer."

Detectives are talking to people who were in the area as well as speaking to local businesses. Officers are checking CCTV cameras looking for footage of the woman and the man who came to her assistance They are also working to establish the exact location where the rape took place.

Anyone who has any information is asked to contact police on 101, extension 69191, quoting reference 137 281213, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.