DETECTIVES have released an efit of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the rape of a young woman.

The 18-year-old victim was grabbed around the throat by a man who pulled her into Jackson's Recreation Ground in Rochester before carrying out the brutal attack.

The incident happened sometime between 11pm and 11.30pm on Sunday, April 1. The woman, believed to be a prostitute, was taken to Gillingham's Medway Maritime Hospital but later released.

The man police are looking for is described as being of Asian or black appearance, around 5ft 6in to 6ft tall and in his mid 20s.

He is of average build with short dark hair styled with a small quiff, clean shaven, spots on his cheeks and bushy eyebrows. He was wearing a three-quarters length dark coat, blue jeans and brown shoes.

The area at Jacksons Field, off City Way, was taped off by police while forensic work was carried out.

Det Insp John Coull, who is heading the investigation, said: “This was a nasty assault and I would like to find the person responsible as soon as possible.

“I would also like to reassure members of the public that offences like these are uncommon in Medway.

“We have set up an incident room to deal with this and there is increased patrolling from uniformed and plain clothed officers in that area."

He added: “We are appealing for people to come forward who either witnessed the incident, heard screaming or saw a man of the description around New Road at the time of the offence, to come forward.

“I believe the attacker may have frequented the New Road area in the past, it is a detailed description and with the e-fit we hope that people will come forward and provide us with the name of the offender.

“We also believe two people approached the victim and offender near the tennis court and I am particularly keen to hear from them."

Anyone who saw anything or has any information relating to the incident is asked to telephone Kent Police on 01634 792681 between 8am and 5pm. Alternatively you can contact Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Calls to Crimestoppers are free, you do not have to leave your name and you could be eligible for a cash reward.