POLICE have released an e-fit image of a man they are trying to trace in connection with the rape of a 27-year-old woman in Elderslie.

The man is described as white, between 35 and 50 years of age and of medium to stocky build, with dark hair that is receding on top.

He was wearing dark trousers and a light-coloured t-shirt at the time of the sex attack, which took place near Wallace Primary School on Monday, February 20.

The victim was targeted at around 8pm while walking along a path between Byres Road and Glenmalloch Place.

Issuing a fresh appeal for information, Detective Inspector Louise Harvie said: “Whilst we understand that this crime has caused a great deal of concern amongst the local community, I would like to reassure everyone that our officers are doing absolutely everything they can to investigate this crime.

“We are completely focused on solving this crime and I cannot stress enough the importance of members of the public coming forward with any information that could potentially assist with our enquiries.

“If you were in the surrounding area on that evening, please cast your mind back and think about whether you may have seen a man of the above description or anything out of the ordinary.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the police on 101.