A MAN has been arrested following the alleged rape of a woman in the grounds of Hereford Cathedral.

West Mercia Police said the incident was reported this morning (November 3) at around 4.30am.

A 24-year-old is being held on suspicion of rape and remains in custody while inquiries are ongoing, police have said.

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Detective Inspector Colin Berry said that CCTV footage showed people passing through the area around the time who may have witnessed the incident. He is calling on people who were in the cathedral grounds early this morning to come forward by contacting Detective Sergeant Leah Lowe on 101 quoting 092i of November 3, or alternatively email leah.lowe@westmercia.police.uk.

Alternatively, if you do not feel comfortable speaking with the police, information can be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

DI Berry added: "We understand that incidents like this can be unsettling. We believe there is no wider risk to the public. The victim is currently being supported by our specially trained officers."

A police cordon was in place this morning until around 11.30am, when officers had left the scene.