Men's DNA taken in rape inquiry

Police investigating a rape in Peterborough have screened the DNA of 115 men who live in the area where the attack took place.

They have also visited 418 homes in Westwood and Ravensthorpe districts.

A 27-year-old woman on her way to work at 0320 BST, on 19 May, was raped on a cycle path that runs parallel to Gresley Way in the city suburb.

The attacker strangled the victim causing her to fall unconscious before raping her.

Police are hoping the DNA screening, which targeted men aged between 16 and 33, will help to narrow the field in their hunt for the attacker described as white, aged between 19 and 23, 5ft 9ins tall with a medium build.

'Good response'

DI Simon Harding said: "I would like to thank the local community for their help and understanding throughout this inquiry.

"We have been extremely pleased with the response of those men being screened.

"It is really important for the investigation that people continue to offer their support."

The DNA is now being sent off for analysis in batches and the process is expected to last for at least several months.

The samples will not be kept on record beyond the conclusion of the investigation, police said.