DETECTIVES are hoping a positive response from the public to appeals for help in finding a rapist will continue.

A team of more than 20 officers are working in an incident room set up to investigate the attack, which happened in the village of Middleton St George, near Darlington.

The 30-year-old victim was raped between 12.30am and 1.30am on Saturday, near Dinsdale railway station.

It is believed the woman had been out drinking in a nearby pub and was dragged off the street and raped in the Belle Vue Terrace area of the village.

Police have established their were a number of people in the area at the time and are pleased with the response to appeals for information so far.

Detective Inspector Ian Phillips, who is leading the inquiry, said: "People are contacting us and saying that they were out that night. So, I'm pleased with the response but I want that to continue."

Officers are continuing their house-to-house inquiries in the village.

The man they are looking for is described as white, about 6ft tall, stocky and with short hair.

Anybody who has any information is urged to contact the incident room on (01325) 742120.

Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously and free of charge, on 0800 555111.

Updated: 14.11 Wednesday, April 25