A woman in her late 50s was raped at knifepoint after giving a man change in a horrific late-night attack off Essex Road.

The woman was walking in Wontner Close on Thursday when the man confronted her and asked for change.

After handing over some cash, the man grabbed her by the shoulder and pushed her into Hedingham Close.

He then pulled out a knife and threatened her with it before raping her in a callous attack that police say has left her traumatised.

The man then emptied her bag and took her valuables before fleeing on foot towards Popham Road.

Police were called and the woman was taken to a specialist care unit.

Detectives are now appealing for witnesses or anyone with information about the attack, which took place between 11.30pm and 12.20am.

The attacker is described as a dark-skinned black man of medium build between 5ft 4in and 5ft 6ins. He was wearing dark clothing, either black or dark blue and is believed to be between 30 and 40.

DC Sarah Hunter from the Met’s sexual offences unit said: “This was a horrific attack on a woman who had stopped to help a stranger when he asked her for some change.

“Were you in the area at the time of attack? Did you see anything suspicious? My team are keen to hear from anyone who has information that can assist the investigation. This was a callous attack which has left the victim very traumatised.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the unit on 0208 733 5999 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.