THE full horror of the vicious rape of a teenage girl became clear toay as detectives revealed the attacker used a knife to terrify his victim.

The thug use the blade to inflict cuts on the victim's body during the attack in a field in York.

As police continued their inquiry the man leading the inquiry, Detective Superintendent Lewis Raw, described the incident as one of the most serious he had seen in his 28-year career.

The attack took place on Saturday, between 6.50pm and 8pm, in a field linking Westfield Place and Grange Lane in the Acomb area of York.

The 18-year-old victim needed hospital treatment afterwards and police have praised her courage.

Det Supt Raw said: "This was clearly a frightening and traumatic experience for the victim, especially as a knife was used in the attack, and she has shown real courage to provide a detailed account and description of the suspect to the police."

Following publication of an e-fit of the rapist yesterday more than a dozen people have come forward with information and as a result of that detectives are following up new lines of inquiry - but they still want to hear from more people who may be able to help.

Det Supt Raw said it was essential the "dangerous" man was tracked down as soon possible and urged anyone with any information to come forward.

"It is vital that we trace the suspect as a matter of urgency," he said.

"I advise people, especially women, to be vigilant and avoid walking alone in the evening."

The rapist was about 5ft 5ins to 5ft 8ins tall, of medium build and had dark, cropped hair, thin lips and a rounded chin flecked with stubble.

He had a deep voice, a local accent and was wearing a dark Puffa-style jacket and light trousers.

Anyone with information should contact police on 0845 6060 247 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.