POLICE have released a description of a man wanted in connection with a rape in Southend.

A 21-year-old woman was attacked at about 6.30am on Sunday, December 13, in Royal Artillery Way.

The woman was walking to work when she was approached by a man at the top of Cokefield Avenue, close to McDonald’s.

He followed her to the underpass at Royal Artillery Way. She was then grabbed as she headed towards the roundabout leading to Thorpe Hall Avenue and dragged across the pavement to a grassy area where she was raped.

Det Supt John Quinton, said: “This assault was a prolonged attack on a young woman, who at times feared for her life. We need to hear from anyone who may have been in the area between 4.30am and 7am who saw the man or the victim.”

The attacker is black, possibly of mixed race, and aged about 26. He was bald, with green eyes and perfect white teeth. He was wearing a black padded jacket, a dark hood, light blue jeans and trainers. He smelt strongly of alcohol.

A 42-year-old man from Southend arrested on suspicion of rape has been eliminated from the inquiry.

Anyone with information can contact the major incident investigation team on 01206 762122, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.