DETECTIVES are following up several fresh lines of inquiry over the rape of a woman who was sleeping in a layby.

Chief Inspector Dave Ellis said there had been a good response to a public appeal for information following the attack, which happened on the A1079 near York at midnight on Wednesday, July 1.

North Yorkshire Police said the woman had been spending the night in her car in the layby "due to her personal circumstances", when she was assaulted by a stranger, believed to be a lorry driver who had parked in the area overnight.

The attacker was described as white, aged about 55 years old, 5ft 10ins tall, of proportionate build and with blond or light hair.

It is thought he had a tattoo on his upper left arm, possibly of an anchor.

The vehicle the attacker 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 and E.

A police spokesman said: “We do still need to hear from lorry drivers who may be able to provide information to assist this investigation.

“The victim is continuing to receive support from specially trained officers.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101.