Teen raped in town centre
Police investigating the rape of a teenager in Paisley town centre have appealed for two women to come forward to help them snare the attacker.
The 18-year-old victim was subjected to the terrifying sex attack at a quiet lane in broad daylight.
The traumatised young woman managed to alert cops to her ordeal shortly after being assaulted.
Police sealed off the area, which is just yards from the High Street, as an investigation was launched.
And last night detectives made a public appeal to trace two women, who were spotted near Meetinghouse Lane at around 7.40pm on Thursday.
They believe may have vital information to help them snare the sex attacker.
Detective Inspector David Wagstaff, who is based in Paisley, revealed the victim was in the company of a man in the grass area at Meetinghouse Lane, between 7pm and 7.50pm when she was raped by him.
He said:“My officers are following a definite line of enquiry, however we are still viewing CCTV and are keen to speak to two women aged in their 20s who
were seen talking to each other outside the entrance to the walled area around 7.40pm.
“It is vital that these women contact police at Paisley immediately as they may hold vital information that could assist our investigation.”
Known locally as‘The Dirty Steps’, Meetinghouse Lane is a rundown steep set of sandstone steps that connect Moss Street to upmarket Oakshaw.
Shopkeepers told the Paisley Daily Express that police were on site when they arrived at their premises early yesterday morning.
DI Wagstaff added: “Anyone else who has any information is also asked to contact police at Paisley Police Station via 101 quoting incident number 3630 of 1 June.
“Alternatively calls can be made via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.”
It is the second serious sexual assault to rock the town in as many months.
On April 30, an 18-year-old was attacked on the grounds of Thomas Coats Memorial Church.
The teenager was targeted at the historic landmark in the early hours of the morning.