A MUM was dragged into an alleyway and raped as she walked home from a night out in Burnley.

The 45-year-old Burnley woman was heading home alone through the town centre when the attacker pounced in Hammerton Street.

The rapist forced the terrified victim into Paradise Street, where he raped her.

It is believed the rapist had also been on a night out in the town.

Detectives believe the attack was a one-off incident, but have issued safety advice urging people not to walk home by themselves and to use to taxis.

The incident happened at about 1.45am on Friday and was reported to police by the victim at about 2.15am.

But police have only just released details as the woman was initially too traumatised to speak to officers about her horrific ordeal.

Following the incident the victim was taken to the Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) Centre, in Preston, where she was examined by specialist officers.

The scene was also sealed off and forensic examinations carried out.

Detective Sergeant Dave Groombridge, the man leading the hunt for the rapist, said: "She had been with friends in Burnley and was walking home alone when the attack happened.

"There is a suggestion the man could have been on a night out in Burnley.

"The lady was very shaken and upset. She had physical injuries consistent with being attacked.

"We believe it is a one-off incident. The town centre is a safe place to be but I would not want people to become complacent.

"People should be aware of their surroundings, walk on lit streets ideally with somebody else or order a taxi."

The attacker was described as white, 30, about 5ft 8ins tall, slim and with dark brown hair. He was wearing a light beige or yellow t-shirt and jeans.

Detectives are appealing for anybody with information about the incident to contact police.

Contact Burnley CID on 01282 472144 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.