A young woman was allegedly raped in Londonderry, in the early hours of Saturday.

According to a report by the Press Association, the woman was attacked in the Shipquay Street/Magazine Street area of the city.

The assailant was described as approximately 20 years old, 5 ft 6in, and with short fair hair spiked in the front. He reportedly spoke in a local Derry accent and was wearing a dark jacket, blue jeans and a black t-shirt, with a checked shirt over it.

"It is imperative that anyone with any information gives it to the PSNI as a matter of urgency so that the vile individual behind this can be brought to justice as swiftly as possible. I would also call on people who know they are going to be out late in town to stay in a group of friends who can look after each other. In the meantime, I offer my support and good wishes to the victim and her family at this difficult time," said Pat Ramsey, Foyle MLA.

Anyone with information about the serious sexual assault is asked to contact detectives in the PSNI's Rape Crime Unit in Ballymena on 028 25667214 or anonymously on 0800 555 111.