A young woman was raped during a “horrific” early morning attack in an Essex alleyway, police have revealed.

The victim, aged in her 20s, was assaulted near to flats on Riverside Place in St John’s Avenue, Braintree on Sunday, June 10.

Essex Police was alerted to the incident at 4.40am.

A spokesman said the woman was being cared for by specially trained officers.

They are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

Senior investigating officer detective chief inspector Stephen Jennings, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “The victim has been through a horrific ordeal and our specialist officers continue to support her.

“I would like to reassure the community that we are doing all we can to catch the individual responsible, with a team of specialist detectives working around the clock.”

“We would also like to hear from anyone in the area at the time who may have witnessed anything or have information that could help us.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Essex Police on 101.

Alternatively, contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or by filling in a form online.