Woman raped in 'racially aggravated' attack

A woman in her 20s has been raped in what police have called a racially aggravated attack.

West Midlands Police were called to the Park Hall area of Walsall at about 19:15 BST on Saturday, and said the woman had been attacked at a nearby property by a man she did not know.

The attacker is described as white, in his 30s, with short hair and dark clothing, and officers have released CCTV of the suspect.

The force said specialist officers had been working since the attack to recover video, speak to witnesses and identify the suspect.

Det Supt Ronan Tyrer described it as "an absolutely appalling attack on a young woman", and said police were doing all they could to arrest the man responsible.

"While we are following multiple lines of enquiry right now, it's vital that we get to hear from anyone who saw a man acting suspiciously in the area at the time," he added.

Separately, the force is also investigating the rape of a Sikh woman in neighbouring Sandwell.

Police said they were not linking the latest attack to other offences.

Ch Supt Phil Dolby, of Walsall Police, said: "Walsall is a diverse area, and we know the fear and concern that this awful attack will cause in our communities."

Officers have appealed for witnesses and those with information to get in touch.