THE detective leading the investigation into the rape of a 21-year-old woman last night spoke of his disappointment at the lack of response to appeals for witnesses.

Detective Inspector Mick Nail, who is hunting the attacker of a woman in Blackhill Park, Consett, at 2.30am on Sunday, November 13, said he was "disappointed and puzzled" at the public's failure to respond

The victim took a shortcut home through the park after a night out in Consett.

Her assailant, said to be in his 20s and with dark hair, was wearing dark clothing and had distinctive round staring eyes.

After the attack, the girl was strangled and passed out. Police believe she was unconscious for 90 minutes before coming to and running to a cottage in the park to raise the alarm.

As a result of the struggle, the victim was covered in mud and officers believe her attacker too would have been heavily mud-stained.

Det Insp Nail said the deeply traumatised victim had, last Friday, shown "tremendous courage" to make a public appeal on television for help in finding the man responsible.

He said: "I find it puzzling that the people of Consett have been unable to match that same courage and come forward.

"The man responsible must be found as a matter of urgency, I cannot rule out the possibility that he could strike again."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0845 60 60 365 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555 111.