A MAJOR investigation is underway after a woman was attacked and raped on a public footpath in the early hours of the morning.

The victim, in her 20s, was assaulted as she walked along a footpath near the University of York at around 2.15am on May 13.

The attack was reported to the police on May 23 and detectives are now appealing for help from the public in tracking down the rapist.

He was described as black, of medium build, aged between 20 to 30 and around 5ft 6in to 5ft 10in tall. He was wearing a dark coloured hoodie top.

The attack happened on the public footpath that leads to Walmgate Stray, behind the university campus in Heslington.

Police now want to anyone who was in the area at the time and saw anyone matching the description of the suspect, witnessed any suspicious behaviour or has any other information that could help the investigation.

Detective Inspector Mark Pearson said: “We appreciate that time has passed since the attack, but I would ask people, particularly students at the university, to cast their minds back to the early hours of Friday, May 13, and contact us if they have any information that could help our investigation.

“Were you out and about at the time, did you see anyone matching the man’s description?”

The traumatised victim is currently receiving support from specially trained officers and partner agencies.

“Sexual attacks by strangers are rare, however, when they do occur, they can cause alarm in the local community,” said Det Insp Pearson.

“Our advice to anyone who studies, lives or works in the area is to adhere to our usual safety advice when out and about at night.

“Always stick together with your friends and get a taxi home. For students, the university security staff can help you with taxis and escorts across campus at night.”

Reassurance patrols are now being carried out in the area by the local policing team.

Anyone with any information is asked to call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for the Major Crime Unit or pass information to the force control room.

To remain anonymous pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.