Medway Police have begun trawling through potential new leads after 15 people called Monday night's edition of Crimewatch to help the search for two men wanted in connection with a rape.

The BBC programme featured photos of Ali Khardo, 22, and Shamal Hussain, 20 who went missing after being arrested over an alleged attack on a 19-year old woman.

Det Sgt Adam Marshall, who attended the studios to appeal for information, said:

"We are encouraged by the response we have had so far and will now look into each call in detail.

"I would like to thank the people who contacted us and also Crimewatch for supporting the appeal."

The rape happened in Rochester High Street in the early hours of Sunday, November 4, last year.

Ali Khardo and Shamal Hussain were initially arrested but failed to return after being bailed pending further enquiries.

Det Sgt Marshall, added: “This was a serious offence and we are keen to locate these men.

“We have conducted numerous appeals locally and are now hoping this high profile national coverage will provide us with the information we need to allow us to progress our investigation.”

It was back in March this year, police took the unusual step of releasing the images of the men and detectives asked people to contact them if they were able to help.

The officers also released descriptions of the pair: