CCTV move in rape inquiry

One of the men filmed on CCTV

Police investigating a rape in Kirkcaldy have started taking DNA samples from men in the town centre at the time of the attack.

And detectives have released closed-circuit television pictures of two men described as "potential witnesses" to the rape in the early hours of 29 April.

The 19-year-old victim was attacked as she walked home from the town centre.

The other is seen in profile

Detective Chief Inspector Tom Crozier said officers had begun screening men known to have been in the area and he appealed for others to come forward and give a mouth swab.

The CCTV pictures of two young men were taken outside Marks and Spencer on Kirkcaldy High Street about 0025.

"While the men were there at least one couple passed by arm in arm, possibly having come from the nearby Wheatsheaf pub, and we would hope too that this scene might ring a bell with them," he said.

A rucksack containing clothes, found near the route taken by the victim before the attack, may provide clues.

The rucksack held clothes

"The bag was uncovered during a routine enquiry in this area and although it might not be in any shape important it is still important that we find out its history," he said.

"The distinctive writing on the Nike brand name, featuring the names Claire, Laura, Choklit, Mikey and Sharon might help identify it."

A man fitting the attacker's description was seen outside Kitty McGinty's pub about 0030, wearing a distinctive light-coloured top with stripes down the sleeves.

DCI Crozier said police were considering the theory that the rapist may not be local.

Rugby league supporters in Scotland for the Silk Cut Challenge Cup final at Murrayfield were staying in Fife that weekend and detectives are liaising with colleagues in West Yorkshire.