Police are appealing for information and witnesses following an alleged rape of a 16-year-old boy in St Albans, Hertfordshire.

The incident occurred within Jersey Farm Woodland Park on Sandringham crescent at around 3.30pm and 4.30pm on Thursday 4 April.

It is reported that the boy was walking through the park when he was approached by the offender, who hit him over the head with a large object and then raped him.

The victim was taken to hospital for treatment, but has since been discharged.

Specialist detectives are supporting the victim as their enquiries continue.

Detective Constable Natalie Bannister said: “This was an incredibly difficult experience for the victim to deal with who is being supported by specialist teams.

“Due to the traumatic nature of the incident, the victim did not feel able to report the incident immediately.

“Because of the unusual circumstances, we are appealing to the public at this stage as part our extensive enquiries ongoing regarding the incident. If you remember seeing someone acting suspiciously around the area at the time, please contact police.

“If anyone has information, no matter how big or small you think it is, please email her Detective Constable Natalie Bannister quoting crime reference 41/39318/23.

Chief Inspector Ady Lysak said: “St Albans has a strong community, and I am hopeful that someone out there has information about this terrible incident.

“I want to reassure the victim that we are doing all we can to investigate, and I urge anyone who has information to report it.