A woman has been left "traumatised" after she was reportedly raped in a Hertfordshire park.

The victim was walking in Parkfields, off Red Road near Borehamwood, when she was allegedly targeted by a man.

It happened between 5.20pm and 6.30pm on October 26, following which police yesterday (November 21) appealed for help tracing him “as a matter of urgency”.

The attack was originally described as "a serious sexual assault", but a Herts Police spokesperson has since confirmed it is being investigated as a rape.

Detective Constable Lauren Thompson said: “Understandably the victim has been left traumatised by the ordeal and she continues to receive specialist support.

Watford Observer: The woman was targeted at Parkfields near Borehamwood.The woman was targeted at Parkfields near Borehamwood. (Image: Google Maps)

“Our enquiries have been ongoing to trace the suspect and we have ascertained that a man was seen walking in the area, towards the park, near the time of the incident.”

He is described as being white, of average build, with dark hair and a beard. He was wearing a hoodie, trousers and shoes that were all dark coloured and carrying a rucksack on his back.

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“If this is you, or you were in the area at the time and may have seen something that could assist our ongoing investigation, please get in contact,” DC Thompson added.

Information can be emailed to lauren.thompson2@herts.police.uk or reported online, quoting reference 41/86921/22.

It can also be sent to Crimestoppers anonymously online or via 0800 555 111.

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