A PENSIONER has been raped by a man on a public footpath in Saltcoats.

The 67-year-old woman was walking on the footpath near to Canal Street when she was approached from behind by a man. The man proceeded to subject her to a serious sexual assault before making off from the scene.

The rape happened between 7.30pm and 8.30pm on Saturday, December 8.

The victim later confided in a relative about what happened and the incident was reported to the police on December 11.

There is no description of the suspect available at this time.

Detective Inspector Stuart Lipsett said: “Extensive enquiries are underway to establish the full circumstances of this shocking incident and to trace the despicable individual responsible.

“I would appeal to anyone who was in the vicinity of Canal Street between 7.30pm and 8.30pm on Saturday and may have noticed a man following a woman, or anything at all suspicious, to please get in touch.

“Additional patrols will be in the area to provide reassurance to members of the public and I would urge anyone with concerns to approach our officers out on patrol who will be happy to assist.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact the Public Protection Unit based at Kilmarnock via 101, quoting incident number 3163 of Tuesday 11 December 2018. Alternatively CRIMESTOPPERS can be called on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence.”