AN APPEAL has been made three months after a rape attack, to witnesses who may have been in the vicinity at the time of the incident.

Police said the 48-year-old victim only recently reported the traumatic incident, which took place on Saturday, December 9.

Walking home in the Pallion area of Sunderland, at about 11pm, she had just passed Pizza Uno, when she was pushed approximately 20 yards into the back lane of Cheviot Street.

Her assailant pushed her into the rear of Pallion Road, behind a Benefits Agency office, where the attack took place. The incident happened quickly and the attacker hurried away afterwards.

No description has been given of the attacker because he approached and grabbed the woman from behind.

In a bid to jog people's memory, police said the attack took place on the night of a Sunderland v Middlesbrough football match at the Stadium of Light.

Anyone who may have been in the area at the time, and who saw anything suspicious, is asked to contact Sunderland CID, on 0191-454 7555