The18-year-old girl was walking back to Liverpool University's halls of residence when she was attacked at 02.45 GMT on Tuesday.

The area on Greenbank Road in Mossley Hill is home to thousands of students.

Acting Detective Inspector Neil Macdonald said: "We have contacted the university bearing in mind there are young ladies in that area at that time of night."

Act Det Insp Neil Macdonald: warning given

The assault has left the victim deeply traumatised and has alarmed other students in the area.

One student told BBC Radio Merseyside: "It is just worrying really, especially being so close to the park when the nights are getting dark... even when you are coming back from university."

Detectives are looking for a man described as white, 20 years old, five ft 10 in (1.78 metres) tall, of medium build, with short hair and a pale complexion.

Act Det Insp Macdonald said: "I would like to reassure the community that all our resources are being utilised to apprehend the man responsible.

"I would also remind women to be extra vigilant and take care if they go out at night.

"They should avoid unlit areas... and try not to go unaccompanied."