A woman has been raped in Malton.
It happened around 1am on Sunday (1 February) in the area of Orchard Fields behind Tate-Smith wines.
Police say they are carrying out extensive enquiries to identify the suspect.
Orchard Fields, Malton
They are urging anyone who saw anything suspicious or who has any information to get in touch.
Detectives particularly want to hear from members of the public who may have seen the suspect or a woman walking in the area of Sheepfoot Hill and the fire station, or near to Tate-Smith Wines and Orchard Fields.
They are also appealing to anyone who lives or works along the route and has CCTV or doorbell footage covering those areas, or motorists who may have dashcam footage from the early hours of Sunday, to get in touch.
The suspect is described as
- aged 40 to 50 years old
- of stocky build
- around 5ft 10ins to 5ft 11ins tall
- with facial hair, but not a full beard.
He had bare arms at the time of the incident. It is not known what clothing he was wearing.
Detective Chief Inspector Dave Ellis said: “We understand that local people will be very concerned about this incident.
“Our Major Investigation Team are carrying out extensive and expeditious enquiries to identify and locate the suspect and our crime scene investigators and search teams remained at the scene until Monday afternoon to carry out a detailed examination of the scene.
“Our Neighbourhood Policing Teams will continue to provide an increased visible presence in the Malton area to provide reassurance to the local community.
“We urge anyone with the smallest piece of information to please get in touch.
“The victim is receiving support from specially trained officers and specialist services as the investigation continues.”
How to help the police
- Call North Yorkshire Police on 101
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via the website
- Quote reference number 12260019472
