Detectives are investigating following reports that a woman was raped in Pitsea shortly after midnight on Saturday. 

It was reported that the woman, aged in her 30s, was walking near to Tesco in Pitsea when she was approached by a man who assaulted and then raped her in a nearby alleyway.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Julie Gowen said: "This was understandably a frightening and traumatic ordeal for the victim, who is now being supported by specialist officers.

"We have a team dedicated to finding the person responsible and we are appealing for information that may be able to help with our investigation.

"The victim was wearing blue skinny fit torn jeans, a beige top with frills on the arms tucked into her jeans, along with a black cotton jacket with pockets and brown UGG boots. She was wearing her hair up half up and down.

"We'd like to speak to anyone who was in the area around this time and saw a woman matching this description or saw any suspicious or unusual behaviour."

Anyone with information are asked to contact our Major Crime Team on 101 quoting crime reference 42/158679/19 or email scd.appeals.essex@essex.pnn.police.uk.

Information can also be given completely anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.

"It is understandable that this incident would cause the community concern, but we'd like to reassure the public that incidents like this are a rare occurrence," added DI Gowen.

"We have additional officer patrols taking place in the area and if anyone has any concerns or information, please speak to one of our officers or contact us on the details above.