Ayrshire rapist description issued

The attack took place in Kilwinning

Police have released the description of a man they are looking for after a young woman was raped.

The 16-year-old was walking home early on Sunday morning when she was attacked near the railway line in Kilwinning.

The man is about six feet tall, with short dark hair. He was wearing a light zip-up jacket and jeans and may have injuries to his hands.

Police are appealing for anyone whose partner, son or husband came home with mud-stained clothing to contact them.

The attack happened close to a footbridge over the railway line between Glenapp Place and Muirside Place.

'Terrifying ordeal'

The young girl, who was in a very distressed state, managed to raise the alarm about 0445 BST at a nearby house.

She was treated for a facial injury at Crosshouse Hospital in Kilmarnock and later discharged.

Detective Inspector Gary Downie said: "This was a terrifying ordeal for the young girl.

"I would appeal to anyone who may have been in the area of the footbridge in the early hours of this morning and who may have witnessed the incident or may have seen anyone acting in a suspicious manner to come forward.

"I would also urge local residents to be extra vigilant until the man is caught."