AN investigation has been launched after a woman was raped in Christchurch town centre in the middle of the night.

Dorset Police received a report at 8.32am on Friday, October 21, that a woman had been raped by a man, who she had met earlier, in the early hours of that morning.

The incident had taken place in the underpass that links the town centre to Bargates.

A cordon was put in place shortly after 9.30am whilst evidence was collected, with officers manning both entrances to the subway.

Police say the victim is being supported by specially-trained officers.

Detectives have launched a full investigation into the incident and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

Read more: Police cordon off subway in Christchurch - latest updates

Detective Inspector Shaun Inkpen, of Dorset Police, said: “I am appealing for any witnesses to the incident or anyone with information about the person responsible to please come forward.

“I would also like to hear from anyone who may have relevant home CCTV or dashcam footage.”

There will be an increased police presence in the vicinity and officers can be approached by members of the public with any information or concerns.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220171411.