A WOMAN has been raped while walking through an alleyway in the morning.

The victim was attacked while on the path between Aconbury Close and Leopard Rise, Ronkswood, Worcester, at about 9.15am on Friday.

The offence was not reported to police until Monday.

Detective Inspector Graham Smith, who is heading the investigation, said: "We believe that this a stranger rape'.

"On that basis, there is a possibility that the man could attempt to offend again.

"Our advice to all women on foot in Ronkswood is to walk with someone else and/or find a different route if their normal one takes them into relatively remote, secluded areas.

"While rapes in Worcester are extremely rare, this was particularly unusual in that it took place in the morning when there is a strong likelihood that there would have been a number of people making their way to work.

"We hope someone will have seen something that - now they are prompted - they will want to report."

The path links Newtown Road to Woodgreen Drive, near to Tolladine Golf Course.

The man is described as white, in his early 20s, between 5ft 8ins and 5ft 10ins tall with thin, shoulder-length, greasy brown hair. He wore blue jeans and a grey T-shirt.

Anyone with information has been urged to call police on 08457 444888, quoting 475S/210507 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.