Police have launched an urgent manhunt after a woman was allegedly raped by a dog walker in an “extremely concerning” attack.
The horrific attack occurred as the victim was walking across a footbridge along Harrington Street, towards the seafront in Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire.
A man - who was walking a small dog - approached the woman and then allegedly raped her.
Local police have launched an investigation into the attack.
The horrific attack occurred as the victim was walking across a footbridge along Harrington Street
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They are searching for a man who is between 19 and 21 years old, around 5ft 6ins, clean shaven with short hair..
He was said to be wearing a grey tracksuit at the time of the attack.
Chief Inspector Jim Clough of Humberside Police said: “I know this incident will be of extreme concern to the local community and whilst our investigation into the incident is in its early stages, I want to offer my reassurance that my officers are exploring all lines of enquiry.
“As a part of our initial enquiries, to understand the circumstances surrounding the report we have been speaking with witnesses, completing house to house enquiries, and reviewing CCTV footage.
“The man is described as being between 19 and 21-years-old, approximately 5ft 6 inches tall, clean shaven with short hair, wearing a grey coloured tracksuit.
"He is also believed to have been walking a small dog."
Ch Insp Clough revealed that police officers would remain in the surrounding area to speak with residents (Stock)
PA
Ch Insp Clough revealed that police officers would remain in the surrounding area to speak with residents and encouraged people to get in touch to let them know if they have any information.
He said: “Locals can expect to see officers in and around the area following up on those lines of enquiry and I would urge anyone with any information or concerns to please speak to my officers when you see them.”
Those with information or who believe that they might have spotted a man fitting the description around the time of the incident, police have requested residents to call their non-emergency number 101 quoting crime reference 25*25149 of 23 February.