A WOMAN was raped after opening her front door to a stranger.

The attack happened on Tuesday morning at the woman’s home in Lyminge, near Folkestone. She called the police when her attacker left.

The following morning detectives were stopping motorists in the village and asking if they saw anyone suspicious in the area.

Police have also taken CCTV footage from the nearby Lyminge Food and Wine shop.

The rapist is described as a white man, aged in his forties, 5ft 10in to 5ft 11in tall, of average build, with bushy brown hair.

He was wearing a blue and black baseball cap, a dark brown waist length leather jacket, brown chino type trousers and light brown shoes. He also wore react to light glasses and was clean shaven. The man had a local accent.

Jon Green, a spokesman for South East Kent Police, said: "Someone knocked at he door. We don’t believe she knew the man. She was then subjected to a serious sexual assault. When the man left she called the police."

Specially trained police officers have been interviewing the woman since her ordeal. Police are hoping to release a description of the man.

Jon Green said: "This kind of incident is very rare indeed and we don’t want to alarm people.

"However, it is always wise to use a door chain if you have one, day or night."

The victim was taken to the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford, but was released after treatment.

Anyone with information is asked to contact South East Kent Police on 01303 850055.