Man arrested after woman raped on city common

A man has been arrested in connection with an investigation into the rape of a woman by a stranger in Southampton.

The attack happened on Southampton Common, near Cemetery Road, shortly after 05:30 GMT on Saturday.

The woman, in her 30s, is being supported by specialist officers and police said they had deployed "significant resources" to the investigation.

The 42-year-old was arrested on Sunday morning on suspicion of rape and remains in police custody.

The area was cordoned off to allow forensic teams to examine the scene but the restrictions have now been lifted.

Neighbourhood Policing Team officers have also been patrolling the area throughout the weekend.

Following the arrest, Det Insp Graham Slack said: "Our teams, detectives and officers have been working tirelessly to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

"Today's arrest is a significant and important development in our investigation, but our work does not end here.

"Whilst the arrested man is in our custody and being interviewed in connection with the incident, our other investigative work and enquiries continue, including further house-to-house visits, speaking to people in the local area, and reviewing CCTV and other footage.

"This was an extremely distressing incident for the woman involved and our specialist officers are continuing to support her. She has been updated on the details of the arrest."

He added: "We understand the concern that this incident will also cause to those who live in the area, as well as the wider community.

"If you have concerns or questions, please get in touch with us."

Anyone who saw or heard anything or who has dashcam, CCTV or doorbell footage is urged to contact Hampshire Police.