Detectives are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward following a report of a rape in Dorchester.

A 22 year-old man from Weymouth has been arrested in connection with the incident and the woman is now being supported by "specially trained officers", according to a police spokesman.

It is understood that the man and woman were known to each other.

The rape happened in Grey School Passage, off High West Street, in the town centre in the early hours of Sunday morning.

A police spokesman said: "At 6:07, Sunday November 18, Dorset Police received a report that a woman aged in her twenties had been raped.

"The incident was reported to have occurred at around 5.10 this morning in Grey School Passage in Dorchester.

"Detectives are carrying out an investigation into the incident. A cordon was put in place at the scene as part of the investigation.

"A 22 year-old Weymouth man has been arrested on suspicion of rape and is assisting officers with their enquiries."

Town councillor Richard Biggs said: "I fully support the police investigation.
"It's appalling for this to have happened in our town."

Mayor of Dorchester David Taylor, said: "I am very concerend when an incident like this happens. My thoughts go out to the lady involved."

He added that he fully backs the investigation. 

Detective Sergeant Rhys Griffiths, of Weymouth CID, said: "We would like to reassure the public that a full investigation is underway to establish the circumstances around the incident. Enquiries are ongoing to see if there is any CCTV in the area that could assist with the investigation.

"If you were in the area of High West Street or Trinity Street around the time of the incident and saw or heard anything that may assist I would ask that you contact Dorset Police. 

“Our local officers from the neighbourhood policing team can be approached with any community concerns.”