A REWARD has been offered for information in an effort to catch a serial rapist who could come from the region.

Thames Valley Police have offered a £10,000 reward for help in their hunt for the man, who has a North-East accent. He may be responsible for nine sex attacks in the South of England.

It is thought he may have carried out other rapes and Detective Superintendent Mark Warwick has called for anyone who may have been attacked to come forward.

He also appealed to anyone who has noticed a friend, relative or colleague acting suspiciously to get in touch, especially if someone has not accounted for journeys across the country.

Det Supt Warwick said: "Someone out there must know him. It must ring a bell."

More than 100 police officers from four forces in the London area are hunting for the attacker, who is described as dangerous and violent.

He has always struck in urban areas on a weekday, grabbing women from behind and forcing them into undergrowth, once brandishing a knife.

In most cases he takes clothing or property from his victims as trophies.