LATE-NIGHT revellers are being asked to come forward to help in the hunt for a rapist who left a woman traumatised and a village in fear.

The 30-year-old woman was returning home from a celebration night out with friends in Middleton St George, near Darlington, when the stranger pounced on her.

He dragged off the street and raped her behind a garage.

The woman, who lives in the village, was not seriously injured but is said to have been "seriously traumatised" by her ordeal.

Last night, police were continuing to interview the woman with the help of specially trained officers.

They were also appealing for information from anyone who knows anything about the rape, which took place in the Belle Vue Terrace area, near the railway station, at about 1am on Saturday.

It is understood the victim had been at a party at a pub in the village and was on her way home when the attack took place.

Detective Inspector Ian Phillips, of Darlington police, said: "We are appealing for anyone who may have information about the attack to come forward

"We know there were a number of people about in the area at that time and we would urge them to get in touch."

Police are especially keen to trace drinkers in any of the local pubs in the village or taxi drivers who may have picked up a late night fare.

A number of pubs and a late-night Chinese takeaway, are within walking distance of where the attack took place.

Villager Roy Hill, who runs the post office in Middleton St George, said: "It is just absolutely horrendous to hear of this.

"I know there was a celebration in one of the pubs - someone was having a birthday - and this woman was with a group of friends who had left for the night."

Police say they believe the rapist is not known to the victim and was not thought to be carrying a weapon.

The attacker is described as being white, about 6ft tall, of stocky build with short hair.

Anyone who can help with the rape inquiry should call Darlington police on (01325) 467681 or Crimestoppers on (0800) 555111.