Police are trying to trace a couple who spoke to a woman shortly before she was dragged into a park and raped.

The 25-year-old woman was attacked by a man while walking down along West Street, Grimsbury, in Banbury, at about 12.30am yesterday.

She was dragged into a park nearby and raped.

The attacker is aged between 30 and 40, about 5ft 8in tall, and was possibly wearing a long-sleeved white top.

Det Sgt Steve Duffy, of Banbury CID, said: "I am very keen to speak to a man and woman who spoke to the victim shortly before the incident took place. The couple were in West Street, close to the junction of Moorfield Court.

"These people may have information that could assist our inquiries and I urge them to contact police immediately.

"I would like to reassure the community of Banbury that incidents like this are extremely rare and we have stepped up patrols to reassure residents.

"Although we are treating this incident in isolation, I would advise women not to walk alone late at night to prevent themselves becoming a victim of this type of crime."

Anyone with information should contact police on 08458 505505 or speak anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.