POLICE are appealing for information after a woman was attacked and raped while sleeping in a car.

The incident occurred in a layby on the A1079 near Dunnington, York, on the night of Wednesday, July 1.

The victim, a woman in her 40s, was attacked in her car while sleeping by a man who is believed to be a lorry driver.

The man is described as white, aged about 55, 5ft 10in, of proportionate build and with blond or light hair.

He had a tattoo on his upper left arm, possibly an anchor.

The vehicle he was believed to have been driving is described as a large lorry similar to an HGV, cream or white in colour, with red lettering on the side including the letters ‘D’, ‘E’.

The attack took place at around midnight on Wednesday 1 July, and the lorry is believed to have been parked in the layby overnight.

Extensive police enquiries are ongoing to identify the man.

DCI Dave Ellis, of North Yorkshire Police’s Major Crime Unit, said: “This attack was on a vulnerable woman who, due to her personal circumstances, spent the night in her car in this layby, where she was raped by a stranger.

“This man is believed to be a lorry driver, and I am appealing for the public to help us identify him. In particular, I believe that fellow drivers may recognise the description of this man, or of his lorry, and will be able to provide information which will help to identify him.”

Anyone with any information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact North Yorkshire Police – dial 101, select option 2 and ask for the Major Crime Unit.

If you prefer not to give your name, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800-555-111.