Tourist raped in London's West End

Detectives were hunting a rapist today after he dragged a woman off the street while she was having a cigarette outside a restaurant.

The 25-year-old German tourist was attacked outside Paradiso E Inferno on The Strand in London's West End on Friday night.

Investigators said she was standing outside the busy restaurant shortly before 11pm when the 6ft tall black man grabbed her.

The victim was hauled down Southampton Street and into an alleyway off Maiden Lane where she was raped.

Police were called when the woman returned to her hotel, a short distance away in Covent Garden.

Detective Inspector Simon Prankard said other late evening revellers may have heard the woman scream for help.

He said: "I believe that there would have been many people in the area socialising on Good Friday.

"The woman called for help during the attack and I would like to speak with anyone who may have heard the incident or has any information that may assist our investigation."

The suspect was described as a black man, about 6ft tall, of "plump" build and aged in his early 30s.

He was wearing a red baseball cap with a white emblem, dark blue jeans, a black hooded top and black trainers.

Anyone with any information should call the Metropolitan Police on 0300 123 1212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.