Detectives investigating the brutal rape of an elderly woman nearly 13 years ago are pursuing new lines of enquiry following a fresh appeal for information.

Detectives investigating the brutal rape of an elderly woman nearly 13 years ago are pursuing new lines of enquiry following a fresh appeal for information.

Norfolk Police has received about half a dozen “interesting” calls after the rape of the 71 year old, at West Harling Heath, near Thetford, on Tuesday June 7 1994, was highlighted by the EDP this week .

Detective Chief Insp Neil Firm, who is leading the cold case enquiry, is hopeful further leads will be generated when the case is featured as part of a nationwide appeal on a new ITV crime fighting show tomorrow night.

“As a result of local publicity surrounding this case earlier this week, we have received a number of interesting calls from members of the public which we are now following up. I would urge people to watch the programme on Thursday as it's possible that the reconstruction will jog their memories - it also features an interview with the victim, who is now 84.”

“It is 12 years since the attack took place and it may be that enough time has lapsed for someone who is holding vital information to now come forward. It is only right that this very brave woman sees justice done,” he said.

The woman was attacked by a teenage boy as she walked her dog along a woodland path known as The Gallops at 12.20pm on June 7 1994. A full investigation was launched at the time and was resurrected by Norfolk Police's Major Investigation Team (MIT) in 2004. The offender, who will now be in his early 30s, was described of Mediterranean appearance, 5ft 6in to 5ft 7in tall, and of medium build.

Reward: Catching the Criminals, which will offer a £10,000 reward for an arrest and conviction, will be aired on ITV1 at 9pm tomorrow.

Anyone with information about the offence is asked to contact Norfolk Constabulary MIT on 0845 456 4567.