A man has appeared in court charged with raping a woman in Cliftonville.

Detectives are now appealing for a fast food worker who went to the alleged victim's aid to come forward.

The attack is reported to have happened at an address in Northdown Road in the early hours of Saturday.

The good Samaritan offered help to the victim, said investigating officer Acting Detective Sergeant Sam Culpin.

He said: "He offered to walk her from a location in Northdown Road to her friend’s home in Bath Road.

"We believe he worked for a fast food chain and was on his way home from a late shift when he found the victim.

"We are appealing for this good Samaritan to come forward as he is a witness and could have important information that could help with our investigation."

Sutherson Tharmalingam, 29, of Northdown Road, appeared before Medway Magistrates by virtual court yesterday charged with two counts of rape.

He was remanded in custody until Monday, September 11, when he is due at Canterbury Crown Court.

The witness – and anyone else who has information about the incident and hasn’t already spoken to police – is asked to phone police on 01843 222289 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting reference number ZY/37556/17.