THIS is the face of the man police want to question after a woman was raped in broad daylight in in Worcester.

The 21-year-old was attacked as she walked to work along an alleyway in Ronkswood.

Police have issued this efit in the hope of identifying her attacker.

Meanwhile they have stepped up patrols in the area and are warning women not to walk alone and to avoid secluded routes.

The victim was attacked in an alleyway between Aconbury Close and Leopard Rise at about 9.15am on Friday, May 18.

Detective Inspector Graham Smith, who is heading the investigation, said: "We hope it will lead to the early identification and apprehension of the man involved in what we believe is a stranger rape'.

"The e-fit shows the man has a number of distinctive features, particularly his long-hair and down-turned mouth.

"We are hopeful that someone will be able to quickly identify him to us so that we can bring him to justice and bring reassurance to women walking alone.

"There remains a possibility that this man could attempt to offend again and - until he is caught - we continue to advise all women on foot in Ronkswood to walk with someone else and/or find a different route if their normal one takes them into relatively remote secluded areas."

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

Police have refused to say if he was armed, but have confirmed they are not linking the attack is to any other in the country.

A spokesman said the victim was being helped to overcome her ordeal.

"Obviously it's been a very traumatic experience for her and she is receiving all the possible help and support," he said.

Police want to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in the alleyway between Aconbury Close and Leopard Rise - and leading from Newtown Road to Woodgreen Drive, near Tolladine Golf Course at the time of the attack.

Anyone who recognises the image or description is urged to contact police on 08457 444888, quoting 475S/210507 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.