Police renew appeal for rape witnesses

POLICE are renewing their appeal for information following the alleged rape of a 24-year-old woman.

The incident happened in a driveway in Murray Road, Ipswich, in the early hours of Monday, possibly between 1.30am and 2.30am.

The victim was traumatised by the incident and went home before telling a friend who then informed the police at about 4pm on Monday.

Following a night out with friends, the woman went in to a taxi but asked the driver to drop her off in Murray Road before reaching her home.

The victim has been interviewed and recalls being in a driveway in Murray Road with a male who raped her. She describes him as white, aged late 40s to early 50s, about 5ft 3ins, heavy build, with white or grey short receding hair and clean-shaven.

Detectives would like to hear from anyone who saw a woman in Murray Road between 1am and 3am on Monday.

Any property owners who have CCTV covering the Murray Road area are asked to contact Ipswich CID as soon as possible so that it can be viewed and seized if necessary.

Detective Chief Inspector David Cutler, who is now leading the investigation said: “We are trying to establish exactly what has happened but due to a disappointing response to yesterday's witness appeal, we only have the account of the victim to date. “Therefore, it is important that we trace anyone who was in the area at the time. We are renewing our appeals for anyone who was in the area or who may have CCTV to get in touch with us regardless of whether they think they have seen anything or not, as they may still be able to help.”

Police would like to reiterate the Nightsafe messages, which are - don't overdo it, friends stick together and get home safe.

Anyone who was in the area around the time the incident occurred or who has any information in relation to this incident should call Ipswich CID on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.