POLICE have released CCTV after a woman was raped in her own home in Orford.

As reported previously, the attack happened in the early hours on Sunday, October 2. At 5.30am, police were called to a home in Orford Lane.

Officers found that an unknown man had entered the house and then raped the female occupant, who had been asleep.

Detectives are now asking members of the public for help in identifying the man pictured in the CCTV footage.

The man is described as wearing a Jack Jones top and a black coloured coat, dark jeans, and white trainers.

He can be seen carrying a suitcase, which it is believed he stole from the victim’s house, and is thought to have walked along O’Leary Street after the attack.

Superintendent Evans said: “The investigation is very much ongoing with a number of enquiries under way and as part of these we are keen to identify the man shown in the CCTV footage as we believe he may be able to help with our investigation.

“We know that the man was walking away from the area, carrying a suitcase, a short time after the incident occurred, he was last sighted passing by Peninsular House on O’Leary Street.

“I am appealing to anyone who may recognise the man and I would also like to urge the man himself to come forward and contact us.

“The same goes to anyone who has any video footage - dashcam, video doorbell or home security - that they have not yet passed to police.”

Detectives are still urging the residents in the area to remain vigilant by ensuring they keep windows and doors locked.

Superintendent Evans added: “Thankfully, attacks such as these are extremely rare – nevertheless, I would urge residents to be vigilant and make sure their homes are well secured.

“I hope that our large police presence in the area will reassurance those in the local community that we are working tirelessly to find the man responsible, and I would urge anyone who or information that may help us to speak to an officer.”

Anyone who believes that they may have information in relation to the incident, report it to Cheshire Constabulary via https://mipp.police.uk or go direct to https://mipp.police.uk/operation/07CH19D14-PO1.

Alternatively, call us on 101 quoting IML 1379409.

If anyone has any concerns about suspicious activity in their area, please contact us by calling 101 or visit https://www.cheshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/soh/seen-or-heard/ In an emergency, always dial 999.