Police are trying to trace a potential witness as part of a rape investigation.

The incident took place in the central area of Southend on Thursday, October26. The exact street address cannot be shared for legal reasons.

A police spokesman said: "We are trying to trace a potential witness who may have information that can assist with an investigation into a reported incident in Southend. 

"We are investigating a report a woman was raped on the evening of Thursday, October 26 and want to trace a man who was seen crossing the Queensway dual carriageway just before 9.50pm that day.

"He wore light coloured jeans, a white top and a dark jacket. 

"He was walking in the direction of Southend town centre at the same time a man and a woman were crossing the road and walking in the opposite direction. 

"Contact the Adult Sexual Abuse Investigation Team at Southend on 101. 

"Collin Gibson, 26, unemployed, of East Street, Southend, was charged with rape and a burglary on October 26 and possession of cannabis on November 3. 

"He appeared at Southend Magistrates’ Court on November 6. No plea was entered and he is next due to appear at Basildon Crown Court on December 4."