Girl, 17, raped as she walks home from friend's birthday celebration

The girl parted company with a friend when they were dropped off by taxi near the Tesco Express and Esso petrol station in Kingston Road, Willerby, on the outskirts of Hull in the early hours of Friday.

She was approached by a man in his late teens or early 20s who struck up a conversation with her near Willerby Square.

As they walked past the Hop Pole pub the man took hold of her and led her into a driveway, where he carried out a "sustained" attack. The girl, who was dressed in dark clothing with a skirt, managed to run away.

Police have appealed for help in identifying the attacker, who may live locally and spoke with a strong Hull accent.

He is about 6ft tall, of average to chubby build and has short, dark blond, gelled hair. He was wearing a black, baggy round-neck short-sleeved T-shirt, and blue or grey jeans.

Det Insp Nigel Sawyer, who is leading the investigation, said: "Did you see or hear anything, did you see these two together or the young girl running away? You might have been getting up for work or been unable to sleep.

"He must have gone somewhere and might be living locally and I think the answer lies in the community."

He added: "The victim is traumatised and is being supported by her family and specially trained police officers. I can't imagine what she'll be going through."

Anyone with information is asked to call 01482 597867 or 01482 597973.