SHE was subjected to a harrowing ordeal by a man who preyed on her vulnerability.

The 19-year-old student had been enjoying a night out with friends in Southampton and was making her way home when she was approached by two men.

Despite her attempts to escape, the pair refused to be shaken off and followed her into an alleyway where one of them raped her.

A year on from the horrific assault she is still receiving counselling every day.

Today detectives have released CCTV images of two men they want to speak to. The pair are seen in the St Mary’s area near where the assault happened and again in the alleyway moments after the victim was raped in the early hours of October 4.

Investigating officer Det Sgt Steve Maldon said: “We are calling on the public to help us identify these men who we believe can help with the investigation. This was an horrific attack on a vulnerable lone female which understandably she is still suffering the effects of.”

The CCTV images have been released after a number of lines of inquiry were exhausted by the team who now believe the public could hold the key to identifying the attacker.

Det Insp Dave Dilly said: “We hope people may remember being out in the city at this time last year and come forward with information. We are still committed to finding those responsible and bringing them to justice.”

Both men were black, aged between 20 and 25 and spoke with African accents. One was described as stocky and about 6ft with a scruffy goatee beard. He was wearing a light grey hooded tracksuit top with a dark logo on the chest and a black buckled belt over dark trousers, possibly jeans.

The second man was of skinny build and approximately 5ft 8in. He wore a distinctive bright yellow zip-up jacket, blue jeans and white trainers.

Anyone with information about the incident or who recognises the men can contact the team at Hulse Road quoting Operation Orchard on 0845 045 4545.

Daily Echo: Hunt for city rapist