E-fit Released After Southend Rape

Police have released an e-fit after a 14-year-old girl came forward to report being raped in Southend more than a year ago.

It happened in the area of East Street, Southend between mid-June and mid-July 2010.

The girl had not told anyone of her ordeal until recently.

The girl was walking along East Street, Southend between 5pm and 6pm in the evening, when a drunken man came out of the alleyway that runs from Kenway to East Street, and parallel with the railway line.

The man said, "Hello", but the girl ignored him. She continue to walk towards a nearby set of traffic lights.

The man then grabbed her wrist and pulled her towards him.

He put a hand over her mouth and dragged her into the alleyway where he raped her.

The girl lost consciousness and when she came round her attacker had left the area.

The man responsible is described as being black, aged 18 plus, 6'0", stocky/broad build and was wearing a black Adidas jumper, dark jogging bottoms and white Air Force trainers.

Dc Julie Martin, of Southend CID, said: "This was a traumatic experience for the girl and we understand why she has been in self-denial.

"She has now had the courage to come forward and tells us her story and we hope that anyone who recognises the man from the efit, or who has any other information, contacts us so that we can bring the man responsible to justice."

Anyone who can identify the man or who has any other information should call police at Southend on 101, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.