THE response to a televised appeal to trace a man wanted in connection with a rape, has left police officers "encouraged".

A photograph of Eskander Khowarim appeared on the Crimewatch programme last week and is on the show's Most Wanted website gallery.

The 22-year-old, whose last known address was in Baxter Avenue, Kidderminster, is wanted in connection with the rape of a woman in the town in January last year.

He is originally from Iraq but is understood to have connections with Essex and Leeds but is not thought to be still in Kidderminster.

Detective Sergeant Duncan Lloyd said numerous calls had been received after the appeal was broadcast and these were being followed up.

He said: "We are very encouraged by the level of response from members of the public and we have received a number of calls from people who believe they have seen Khowarim, or know of his whereabouts. We are very grateful to all those who have called in and appreciate the public's support in this matter.

"We are still sifting through the calls and there are some positive sightings of him, which are all being followed up."

Anyone with information about Khowarim is urged to call detectives at Kidderminster CID on 08457 444 888 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.