Police are trying to trace a van driver who offered a woman a lift - shortly before she was abducted and raped.

Hertfordshire Constabulary continue to work with the Met Police as they investigate the rape of a 21-year-old woman in Watford on Easter Sunday - alongside the further rape and abduction of two women in north London - who were snatched last Thursday before escaping in Osborne Road, Watford.

Joseph McCann, 34, has been identified as the chief suspect and is currently being hunted by police.

Watford Observer:

Joseph McCann

At around 3.30am on April 21, a woman was approached by a man holding a knife in Hagden Lane and bundled into a blue Ford Mondeo. She was taken to several places in the town including Watford Library in Hempstead Road, where they were parked for some time.

She was then taken to North Western Avenue before being taken to a house in the town. The victim was raped at this address. She was then driven to the BP garage in Wiggenhall Road.

At 9.30am on Easter Monday, the 21-year-old was released.

Police say that just before she was abducted, a van pulled up alongside her in Hagden Lane and offered her a lift but she declined.

Officers are keen to trace this van driver as he may be a witness or have information that could help with the investigation.

As the manhunt for McCann continues, police patrols in Watford have been increased.

At least one address in the town has been visited by armed officers in connection with the hunt for McCann.

Meanwhile, Watford chief inspector Matt Phillips says they are aware of many rumours on social media which is fuelling concern and says much of this information is false.

He said: “I understand this incident and the linked offences that occurred in London will be of concern to the public. I would like to reassure residents that we are doing all in our power to bring the offender to justice.

“We as a community safety partnership are liaising with local organisations in the town in order to gain a better understanding of the current concerns in the community and will be sharing information when we can.

“We are aware that there is some speculation and rumour circulating on social media which is likely to also be fuelling concern. I would urge people to treat these with a degree of caution as much of the information is false."

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Phoebe Biggins said: “This was a horrific incident which has understandably left the victim extremely traumatised.

“We would like to trace anyone who believes they may have seen a man acting suspiciously in the Hagden Lane, Rickmansworth Road areas that morning. In particular the driver of the van that offered the woman a lift shortly before she was attacked. I would like to stress, they are not a suspect, but may be a witness who can assist our investigation.

“Or did you see a blue Mondeo at any of these locations listed above? Please contact us on 101."

Anyone who sees Joseph McCann should call 999 immediately and not approach him.