Woman forced into car and raped before asking strangers for help as police issue CCTV

Police are appealing for witnesses who may be able to help identify and track down two men who sexually assaulted a woman after forcing her into a car in Taunton, Somerset

Harrowing CCTV footage shows a woman flagging down a dog walker and asking for directions - moments after being raped in a car by two men.

The footage released by Avon and Somerset Police shows the woman after she was approached by two men in a car pulling up on a street in Taunton, Somerset, at around 12.15am on August 8. After beckoning the woman over, the unknown men forced the woman inside, where police said they proceeded to rape her before she escaped.

Investigators said that, after the woman was able to free herself, she approached a dog walker and asked for directions home. Police are now seeking to speak to the walker, described as white, with blonde hair and walking a black dog, as they try to track down the two men.

Using an account presented by the victim, police described the men as being of mixed heritage, approximately six feet tall, and aged in their late 30s. One of the pair, the account added, was of large build with black hair and a moustache. They were believed to have been driving at small, dark car when the incident took place.

Johnathan Eamer, a Neighbourhood inspector for Avon and Somerset Police, said the service believes the sexual assault was an "isolated incident", with no further reports indicating additional assaults. He said: "We understand this can be a very alarming and distressing incident in the local community but we believe this to be an isolated incident with no further reports of this nature."

"We are supporting the victim during this time and commend her for her bravery in coming forward. We are appealing for the woman who came to the victim’s aid to come forward. We are also asking anyone who was driving or lives in South Street, Taunton, who may have dashcam, doorbell or CCTV footage to get in touch as soon as possible."

The police department has asked people who may have information relating to the incident to contact investigators on the police non-emergency number 101. Anyone contacting the service will need to give call handlers the reference number 5224207440. Alternatively, people can complete an online appeals form.