A RAPIST has struck in the heart of a Huddersfield housing estate.

Police today launched a major inquiry after the 33-year-old woman was attacked on the sprawling Sheepridge estate.

The victim was walking down a footpath between Sheepridge Road and Ruskin Grove when the man struck late last night.

She was on the pathway when the man leaped out from behind a bush, dragged her to the ground and then attacked.

Det Supt John Parkinson, who is heading the investigation, said: "The victim suffered a serious sexual assault by a man not known to her.

"She has been spoken to by specially-trained police officers and has received medical attention. "Inquiries are currently ongoing by Huddersfield CID."

The victim is thought to have suffered bruises and scratches during her ordeal.

Det Supt Parkinson added: "We need to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time or anyone who lives on the estate who heard anything strange between 10pm and 11pm last night."

The attacker is about 6ft tall and he wore dark jeans, a dark jacket and a dark baseball cap with a white Nike tick on it.

Today the scene remained sealed off and guarded by police while forensic experts searched for evidence.

Anyone with information should contact Huddersfield police helpdesk on 01484 436659.