A TEENAGE girl has been raped in a park after an evening in a pub.

The 17-year-old was subjected to the attack in Kay Park, Kilmarnock, on Sunday night.

Police said the victim had been in a local pub, Fanny by Gaslight, in the East Ayrshire town's West George Street, earlier that evening.

She left the premises at about 10.35pm and walked off with the suspect towards Portland Street. They then went to the park, where she was attacked.

Afterwards, the victim made her way to Strawberrybank Road where she was helped by members of the public who walked her home.

Although very distressed, she did not require hospital treatment, police said.

Police have upped patrols in the area and are scanning CCTV footage in a bid to catch the man responsible.

He is described as being white, aged 20 to 25, 6ft, with red hair and a local accent. He was wearing a dark red top and blue denim jeans.

Detective Inspector Graham Duncan appealed for witnesses to come forward. He said: "At this time, extensive inquiries are ongoing to trace the male.

"CCTV is being examined and we know that a number of people were outside the pub when the victim left.

"They may have noticed her walking off with the suspect and I would urge them to come forward.

"They may also have been seen by people in the area of Kay Park on Sunday evening.

"I would appeal to anyone who was in Fanny by Gaslight on Sunday evening or in the area of Kay Park between 10pm and midnight to speak to police.

"Meantime, additional patrols are in the area and members of the public are encouraged to speak to officers if they have any information or concerns."

Police can be contacted on 101 and Crimestoppers can be reached on 0800 555 111.