DETECTIVES are hoping a positive response from the public to appeals for help in finding a rapist will continue.

A team of more than 20 officers are working in an incident room set up to investigate the attack, which happened in the village of Middleton St George, near Darlington.

The 30-year-old victim was raped some time between 12.30am and 1.30am on Saturday, near Dinsdale railway station.

It is believed the woman had been drinking in a nearby pub. She was dragged off the street and raped in the Belle Vue Terrace area.

Police have established there were a number of people in the area at the time and say they are pleased with the response to appeals for information.

Detective Inspector Ian Phillips, who is leading the inquiry, said: "People are contacting us to say they were out that night. I'm pleased with the response but I want that to continue."

House-to-house inquiries were continuing in the village yesterday.

The man they are looking for is described as white, about 6ft, stocky and with short hair.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the incident room on (01325) 742120. Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.