POLICE have appealed for witnesses in relation to a case of modern slavery in Caversham.

The victim, a 16-year-old boy, was held in a house on September 5, where he was forced to wash dishes between 9pm and 9am the following morning.

He ran out of the house the following day and was approached by a woman who gave him food.

The offender is described as being a white man, who was tall and had large build with curly dark hair and a beard, a large nose, dark eyes and a scar on his face below his right eye.

He was dressed in sports trousers with a white tracksuit top.

Detective constable Young Chung, of CID at Reading station, said: “We are eager to find witnesses to this incident as it was a traumatic experience for the victim.

“We are also keen to find the woman who provided the victim with food after he left the property as we believe she could help with our enquiries.

“Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and quote 43180271766.”

Reports can be made online at https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/ or you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A force spokesman said: "Thames Valley Police takes all reports of modern slavery extremely seriously and our Hidden Harm campaign has focussed on raising awareness of this under reported crime happening in our communities.

"It is vitally important that anyone who notices any suspicious activity or is worried about someone reports their concerns."

For more information about modern slavery visit www.thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk/hiddenharm