Detectives investigating the rape of a young woman in Sudbury have put out an updated appeal for witnesses to come forward as enquiries continue.

East Anglian Daily Times: The attack happened in grassland between First Avenue and Second Avenue in Sudbury Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNThe attack happened in grassland between First Avenue and Second Avenue in Sudbury Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN

An 18-year-old reported being attacked at around 3.30am on Monday, off a path near First Avenue and Second Avenue.

She had been walking from the town centre along Waldingfield Road when she turned left onto a cycle path – next to the bus stop directly opposite Wheelers Close.

This path runs towards Acton Lane, behind First Avenue and Second Avenue – and it was as she approached an area of grassland that she heard footsteps behind her.

She was then grabbed by a man who raped her.

The victim managed to scream out and attracted the attention of two men who helped her, causing the suspect to run away in the direction of Waldingfield.

Detective Superintendent Marina Ericson, of the Major Investigation Team, said: “This was a terrifying attack on a young woman and she has been incredibly brave in working with our officers to help us try to identify the offender.

East Anglian Daily Times: The attack happened in grassland between First Avenue and Second Avenue in Sudbury Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNThe attack happened in grassland between First Avenue and Second Avenue in Sudbury Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN

“I am directly appealing for anyone who believes they either know, or saw, a man matching the description we have issued, or who was in any of the locations mentioned between 2am and 6am, to contact us without delay.

“I would also like to remind people to avoid walking alone in the early hours of the morning. Always plan your journey home by walking in groups, making arrangements to get a lift with friends, or using a taxi.”

Specialist trained officers are continuing to support the victim – as work to identify the suspected attacker continues.

He is described as white, of small to medium build, with dark curly hair and a dark beard.

Police believe he was wearing a brown leather jacket and jeans, and spoke with a foreign accent.

Officers are continuing to carry out house to house, forensic and CCTV enquiries.

They are appealing for anyone who was in Infinity nightclub on the night of the attack, and believes they saw a man matching the above description, to come forward.

Detectives also want to speak to anyone who was out in East Street or Waldingfield Road between 2am and 6am.

In particular, they would like to trace two people seen by the victim in Waldingfield Road at around 3am, as they could prove to be vital witnesses.

Anyone who drove along these roads between 2am and 6am – who may have dash cam footage – or anyone living near any of the routes mentioned and has private CCTV – to get in touch.

Calls should be made to the Major Investigation Team on 101 quoting reference 29056/18.

Or, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.