A RAPE investigation has been launched after a woman reported she was attacked in a Basildon town centre car park.

The woman reported being raped at the bottom of the slope in the Asda car park at the Eastgate Centre at around 4am yesterday.

The man is described as black, stocky build, shaven head, and wearing a black top and trousers. 

The woman is being supported by specialist police officers and agencies and detectives from Essex Police's major crime team are investigating.

Detective Inspector Stewart Eastbrook said: “Incidents like this are rare but I know this will cause concern for anyone who lives or works in the area and understand that concern.

“There will be an increased visible presence in the area and specialist detectives and staff are working tirelessly to identify the man responsible.

“I need anyone who was in the area between 4am and 8am on Sunday and saw a man matching this description to contact us.

“Please also check your dash cams if you have them.”

Anyone with any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, is urged to contact police quoting crime reference number 42/144747/24.

Submit a report at essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about the force's online reporting services.

To make an anonymous report, contact independent charity Crimestoppers by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.