POLICE are launching an investigation after a woman was raped while walking through a park at midnight.

A woman in her 30s was walking in Cowsey Wood at around 12.05am on June 2.

She was attacked and then raped by a man in the area of the swings near to Linden Road in Whitley.

The victim was then able to run away and seeked help from members of the public who contacted the police.

Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses to a rape in Reading.

The attacker is a man in his mid to late 20s described as being a stocky build and around 5ft 8ins tall with tanned skin and dark hair.

He was wearing dark coloured clothes.

The woman suffered cuts and bruises and was taken to Royal Berkshire Hospital for treatment and has since been discharged.

There will be an increase of police presence while investigations are being carried out.

Senior investigating officer detective chief inspector Matt Stone of Reading Force CID, said: “This is a very serious incident and detectives are investigating this report thoroughly and extensively.

“I would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information which could assist the investigation.

“People in the community are likely to notice an increased presence of police officers in the area, as house-to-house and CCTV enquiries take place along with forensic searches at the scene.

“The victim is being offered the support of specially trained officers following this incident.

“I am appealing to anyone with any information to contact the police as soon as possible.

“If you saw or heard anything suspicious please get in touch.

“We would also like to hear from anyone with dash-cam footage or CCTV in the area.

“I understand that this may cause some concern in the community, incidents like this are extremely rare and we will be working to offer reassurance with additional patrols.

“Anyone who has any information, or wishes to raise anything, should approach and speak to an officer in the area or call us on 101.”

Please contact Thames Valley Police on 101 quoting reference 43190164872 or make a report online.

If you do not wish to speak directly with police, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Anyone concerned can find advice on staying safe online.