DETECTIVES investigating the rape of a teenage girl in a Darlington park are anxious to speak to late-night revellers who may hold vital clues.

The 18-year-old was raped near a bandstand in North Lodge Park early on Saturday following an evening at the town's Mardi Gras night spot.

She left the nightclub at about 2am and spent some time talking to a man outside, before going to the park, which is opposite the club.

After heading towards the centre of the park, the pair came across another couple and had an argument with them. The second couple left the area.

Soon after, the teenager was attacked. Her assailant, a man in his early 20s, is described as being black or of mixed race, of slim to medium build, and with very short dark hair.

Investigators are anxious to speak to clubbers making their way home, or anyone else in the town centre between 2.30am and 7am, who may have seen a man matching the description.

Officers are looking particularly for people who may have seen the man in Corporation Road, Northgate, North Road, Thompson Street East and Whinfield Road, to help them track his movements after the attack.

While the man was walking across the railway bridge in Thompson Street East, it is thought he passed two other men, including one who was in his mid-20s, about 6ft 2in, with short blond hair and wearing a striped top.

Police said they want to speak to this man as well as anyone who saw the victim.

She was wearing black, three-quarter length trousers and a black net-style top. Her light brown hair was in a ponytail.

The second couple in the park have not yet come forward, despite police appeals, and they are being asked again to get in touch.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681.