POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a 19-year-old girl was raped at Westwood College, in Scarborough, in the early hours of last Friday.

North Yorkshire Police said a number of important witnesses had been traced following the attack, which is believed to have taken place between 2.40am and 2.55am.

The witnesses have described a group of young people who were walking from the town centre towards Valley Bridge, passing the entrance to Pavilion Square. It is believed these witnesses saw and may have been shouting to the victim immediately before the attack and could have vital information relating to the case.

Police also have CCTV footage which shows a number of unknown witnesses passing Westwood and Valley Bridge Parade around the time of the attack. They are appealing for these people to come forward.

The victim was wearing a denim jacket, pink top and black skirt. Anyone with information should contact the police on 01723 500300.

Updated: 11:56 Monday, February 18, 2002