Woman raped in city centre

A 24-year-old woman was raped early this morning.

The woman is said to have been walking along Grainger Street in the city centre when she was approached by a man.

The offender, who is yet to be identified, was described as a dark haired Asian, around 5’7 inches tall with a slim build. He was wearing blue jeans and a dark coloured top.

Northumbria Police have advised people to avoid walking on the streets alone.

In a statement Northumbria Police said: “Enquiries are ongoing into this report and we want to hear from anyone who might have any information as to who this man might be OR anyone who was in the city centre in the early hours of this morning and may have seen anything”.

Neighbourhood Inspector Darren Adams said “We are working with the victim to try and put together the exact circumstances around this incident and specialist officers are giving her all of the help and support that she needs at this time.

“I’d urge everyone who is out in Newcastle city centre really late at night, or early in the morning, to try and stay with friends or with groups of people. Try and avoid walking home alone and if you’ve been on a night out then make plans to get home safely and with your friends as much as you can.

“We need to find this man as soon as possible and I’d urge anyone with any information to contact us straight away.”

Enquiries are ongoing into the incident and officers are appealing for anyone who was in the areas of Grainger Street or Northumberland Street, and who might have seen a man matching the description, to contact them as soon as possible on 101 ext 69191 quoting reference number 96 271015.