Hunt called off after police probe report of rape on cycle path in Linwood, Renfrewshire

A hunt for a man with a “facial injury” has been called off after police investigating a report of a rape found no crime had taken place.

Officers previously issued an appeal saying a woman had been left “shaken” after she was attacked on a cycle path in Renfrewshire.

The 41-year-old was said to have been targeted on a path linking Linwood and Brookfield between 10pm and 11pm on Wednesday.

At 4.15pm on Thursday, a Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Following our earlier appeal for information on a report of a serious sexual assault in Linwood on Wednesday, December 21, 2022, it has been established that no crime has taken place.

“Thank you to those who shared our earlier appeal.”

Police previously said the woman attended the Royal Alexandra Hospital for treatment following the attack. Her current condition is unknown.

Police Scotland confirmed that an investigation into the incident was launched including a search for the man described as white and in his 20s, with dark wavy hair.

In the original appeal, Detective chief inspector Mark McLennan said: “The woman was left understandably shaken by this incident.

“Our enquiries are at an early stage and I am appealing to anyone who recognises the description of the man to get in touch.

“Additionally, I would ask anyone who was in the area around that time and who may have seen someone fitting the description before or after the incident to come forward.”

Deputy area commander inspector Alex Marshall said: “We understand an incident like this is concerning to the local community and I would like to reassure the public that extra patrols are being carried out in the area.

“Anyone with any concerns can approach these officers and provide information.”

Anyone with any information was asked to contact 101 quoting reference 2911 of December, 27, 2022. Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.