Man arrested over rape of 70-year-old woman

Detectives investigating the rape of a 70-year-old woman in Purley have made an arrest.

The man, 46, was arrested last night (Saturday, 14 May) on suspicion of rape and remains in custody at a south London police station.

Detectives from the Met's Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command continue to investigate the incident.

At about 07:50am on Wednesday, May 11, a woman in her 70's was in her home address in Purley; when she became aware of a man at her front door.

The woman opened the door and the man used his foot to force it to stay open, before entering her property.

Inside he assaulted her causing bruising to her face and raped her.

The man then left the address and the woman alerted the emergency services.

The victim has described the suspect as a white man who was about 5ft 8ins tall with short brown hair.

He spoke with what was possibly a Scottish accent and had a tattoo or a mark on his neck and a tattoo on the left side of his chest, which was described as circular.

Police are asking anyone with information to call them on 020 8721 4106; or to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.