INVESTIGATIONS into an attempted rape in Redditch in 1996 have been re-opened after the man convicted of the crime was acquitted.

Victor Nealon, who lived in the town when the attack took place, was jailed for life for the attack in 1997 but the conviction was quashed by the court of appeal last December.

Appeal judges made the decision to overturn the conviction after hearing fresh DNA evidence cast doubt on the verdict.

West Mercia Police Detective Superintendent Adrian McGee said today: "The case review which we have carried out has highlighted some areas where reinvestigation is necessary.

“This includes the forensic results relating to the victim's clothing which were detailed during the appeal hearing.

"Given the historic nature of this matter further investigation may take a considerable amount of time.

“We are continuing to liaise over this with the victim and we have also informed Mr Nealon and his representatives."