POLICE are hunting a rapist who attacked a woman after knocking out her male friend.

The 29-year-old woman and her friend were walking home after a night out when they were approached by a stranger.

He attacked the man, knocking him out, before assaulting the woman and raping her in the rear lane of Esplanade Place, behind Zync Bar in Whitley Bay, North Tyneside.

The attack took place at 3.45am on Sunday, October 16. Police said the offender made off in the direction of the promenade.

The attacker is described as white, 26-27 years old, approximately 5ft 9ins tall, chubby build with dark brown shaggy hair.

He was wearing a dark blue hoody with writing on it and dark blue jeans. He spoke with a local accent.

Officers are carrying out house to house enquiries and appealing for information.

Police are appealing for witnesses anyone who was in the area and who may have seen or heard anything suspicious is asked to contact police.

Chief Inspector Steve Readdie, of North Tyneside Area Command, said: "I'd like to reassure the community that we're doing everything we can to find whoever is responsible and extra officers will be on patrol in the area.

"I'd urge anyone who may have any information to contact police."

The victims suffered minor injuries in the assaults and did not recieve hospital treatment, however, were left shaken by the incident.

Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 03456 043 043 ext 69191 or ring the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.