POLICE want to trace two witnesses after a woman was raped near Chelmsford Cathedral.

The 31-year-old from Witham was attacked by a man in Cathedral Walk, behind Dukes Genesis nightclub, in the early hours of Sunday after spending the evening in the nightspot.

The woman is believed to have left the club with the assailant, who is described as in his early thirties, white, with a muscular build. He had brown spiky hair and was wearing a shirt with numbers on it.

Police want to speak to a man in the nightclub car park who spoke to the couple shortly before 1.30am, making a specific comment to the woman, inferring he knew the attacker.

There is also a second man who saw the couple on the floor next to the cathedral approximately 20 minutes later, who shouted at them.

The attack is reported to have happened at about 2am on Sunday.

Police are appealing to anyone with information to come forward. Nishan Wijeratne, a police spokesman said: “The victim is now recovering at home, but continuing to be supported by a specialist officer as she helps detectives piece together events.

“We’re looking to speak with any late-night revellers who were either in the nightclub and who recognise this man from the description, or anyone who saw or heard the attack.

“Indeed, the man himself is advised to contact us.”

Peter Judd, Dean of Chelmsford Cathedral, said he was deeply shocked by the incident.

He said: “It’s surprising, considering the area is fully lit and covered by CCTV cameras.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact detectives on 0300 3334444.