POLICE are today warning women to be on their guard following a report of a rape in Ipswich.Detectives are currently wading through CCTV footage as part of their investigation after a 35-year-old woman claimed she was grabbed by two men as she walked past Gippeswyk Park in the early hours of yesterday morning, pushed into a car and raped.

POLICE are today warning women to be on their guard following a report of a rape in Ipswich.

Detectives are currently wading through CCTV footage as part of their investigation after a 35-year-old woman claimed she was grabbed by two men as she walked past Gippeswyk Park in the early hours of yesterday morning, pushed into a car and raped.

A police spokesman said they were alerted to the attack by a member of the public at about 3.45am yesterday but have since traced and spoken to the victim.

Two parts of Ancaster Road were cordoned off yesterday morning as the scene of the crime was investigated.

Detective chief inspector David Cutler of Ipswich CID said: “We are continuing a number of lines of enquiry.

“We would like to reiterate the usual safety guidelines to women walking home from town or anywhere, which is to make sure you know your route home, make sure someone knows where you are, and to go home with friends if possible. People should look after themselves and others.”

A police spokeswoman added that they were taking the attack extremely seriously and urged women to take sensible precautions over the New Year period.

She said: “We would advise people to ensure they make preparations to get home safely.

“Try not to get yourself into a situation where you feel uncomfortable and make sure you know what your plans are before you go out.”

Police have launched an appeal for witnesses to the incident or anyone who may have seen anyone in the area between 2.30am and 4am.

The woman told police she was walking past the park entrance when she was approached by a white man, who was with a black and largely built man.

She claimed she was grabbed, pushed into a dark-coloured car, driven along Ancaster Road and raped.

It is not known whether the woman claims to have been raped by one or both of the men.

Anyone with information is asked to call Ipswich police on 01473 613500.

Do you feel safe in Ipswich? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.