POLICE want to hear from a woman who spoke to a rape victim shortly before she was attacked.

A woman in her 20s was raped by a man in a cut next to the primary school field in Wheatley Hill, County Durham, between 10pm and 10.30pm on Monday, August 1.

The woman, who was heading home from a friend's house, was approached by two men wearing baseball caps and face masks who grabbed her.

She struggled, kicking out, and one of the men ran off but the other pinned her to the ground and carried out the attack.

Police are now hoping to find a woman who spoke to the victim shortly before the attack.

Detective Inspector Kevin Langan, of Peterlee CID, said: "We would like to speak to this person as a matter of urgency as she may have information vital to our investigation, and we would urge her to make contact with us."

Police also want to speak to anyone who saw three men wearing ski masks outside Pizza Nova, Peterlee Cottages.

The woman's attackers are said to be 5ft 4in and slim build and 5ft 8in and of medium build.

Three men who were helping with police enquiries have been released on bail.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on (0845) 606 0365, extension 2611.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where you can leave information anonymously.