A MANHUNT has been launched after a woman was raped in an alleyway on a night out.

Officers say it happened shortly after the victim - an 18-year-old from Fareham - became separated from a friend she was with.

She was assaulted in an alleyway off Gosport High Street last Sunday between 3am and 5.30am.

Shortly afterwards the girl ran down the road and raised the alarm by banging on the front door of McDonald's.

The restaurant was closed but staff were on the premises and went to her aid before calling police, who arranged for the teenager to have medical checks.

Detectives are anxious to hear from anyone who thinks they may have seen the victim or her attacker in the early hours or noticed anything unusual.

The man being sought by police is described as having blond/mousey-coloured short hair with a parting.

A police spokesman said officers were carrying out extra patrols in the area and detectives were following up on several leads.

He added: "Officers are reminding people of the advice to help stay safe when on a night out.

"Where possible use public transport or use a designated driver, who isn’t drinking alcohol, to get you to and from any venue you go to.

"When walking stick to well-lit areas with plenty of other people about. Go with friends and try to make sure you stay together."

Anyone with information about the Gosport attack should call the Operation Amberstone Team at Fratton Police Station on 101.