Police are appealing for information after a woman was the victim of a serious sexual assault in Gloucester.

Police say the woman found a Transit style van on the driveway of an address on Elmgrove Road, Hucclecote at around 10am Thursday, 7 December.

The occupant of the van forced her into the vehicle before subjecting her to a serious sexual assault. The victim escaped from the van after the attack.

The man is described as white, aged in his thirties, of stocky build and with a local accent. He had cropped light hair and wore dark jeans.

The van was pale in colour, possibly silver, with a sliding side door and believed to be a few years old.

Gloucester police Detective Inspector David Shore-Nye said: "This was an absolutely horrifying incident that has understandably left the victim completely distraught.

"She is now receiving support from our officers and other agencies while we carry out all possible enquiries, including CCTV, house to house and forensic investigations. But we also need the public to call us if they believe they have any relevant information, particularly about the vehicle described and any sightings in Hucclecote on Thursday morning."

"You can call 101 or email 101@gloucestershire.police.uk and quote incident 126 of 7 December.

"You can also call the independent crime fighting charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and stay anonymous if you wish.

"We would now just urge people to be vigilant and call us if they have any concerns," said Detective Inspector Shore-Nye.