A TAXI driver who may have information about the attempted rape of a woman in Middlesbrough is being asked to come forward by police.

The woman was attacked on Whitfield Avenue, Middlesbrough, after being approached by a man close to the Royal Cars taxi rank on Marton Road, at around 4am on Sunday, October 4.

The suspect approached her near the rank and they both walked from Park Vale Road on to Angle Street and then on to Whitfield Avenue, where the attempted rape took place.

The woman was left with minor injuries but did not need hospital treatment.

Detectives from Cleveland Police want to trace the driver of a black and yellow taxi which collected the victim after the offence, between the old White Rose pub and St Joseph’s Church at the junction of Marton Road and Park Road South.

The driver is described as an Asian male in his early 30s, of medium build with bald or shaven hair. Police say he may be able to help with inquiries.

Detectives are also hoping to trace another potential witness, a man who was standing close to the Royal Cars taxi rank when the victim was approached by the subject.

They said he could have “vital information” which could help officers.

He is described as a white male, aged in his late forties to early fifties, of medium build with a ‘short back and sides’ hairstyle and wearing blue jeans and a red top.

It is believed that two cyclists were also in the area of Marton Road near to the junction with Southfield Road around the time of the incident. A 46-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted rape and he has been bailed pending further enquiries.

Any of the witnesses mentioned, or anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Inspector Matt Murphy-King from Cleveland Police Major Crime Team on the non-emergency number 101, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.