DOZENS of residents have turned out to help police investigating a rape.

Around 70 people stopped to speak to police at the site of the brutal sex attack in Elderslie.

A 27-year-old woman was raped as she walked along a path between Byres Road and Glemalloch Place, around 8pm on February 20.

She was approached by a man who hit her and knocked her over before he raped her. 

Officers revisited the scene last night, one week on from the incident, and spoke to dozens of residents. 

They have appealed again for locals to check their gardens and bins for "any item of discarded clothing which they do not recognise as belonging to them."

Investigators revealed last week they were looking for the victim's trousers, following the attack last Monday. 

The suspect is described as white, between 35-50 years of age and of medium to stocky build with dark coloured hair that is receding on top. He was wearing dark coloured trousers and a light coloured t-shirt.

Detective Inspector Louise Harvie said: “Officers have continued carrying out extensive enquiries in the local area, including door to door enquiries. "We are continuing to collate and review CCTV footage to see if further information can be obtained.

“Last night, officers revisited the scene of the incident.

"Over 70 people took the time to speak with officers and we are grateful for their assistance.

"Officers will assess all information received to determine if it can assist with the ongoing investigation.

“We would continue to ask local residents in that area to check their gardens and bins for any item of discarded clothing which they do not recognise as belonging to them.

“We will trace the man responsible and we continue to appeal to anyone with information to contact us.

"Anyone with information that may assist, no matter how insignificant it may seem, should contact Renfrew Police Office through 101. "Alternatively please contact CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111, where information can be given anonymously.”