A WOMAN has reported being raped in a Dorchester town centre alleyway.

Cordons were put in place outside The Royal Oak pub and in South Street Passage after Dorset Police received a report that a woman – aged in her 30s – was raped at around 10.30pm on Friday, August 13.

The cordon at The Royal Oak has now been lifted after examinations were carried out at the scene.

Members of the public saw two police vehicles parked outside the High East Street pub on Saturday morning (August 14) as officers investigated.

A Wetherspoon spokesman "confirmed that the Royal Oak pub was in no way connected to the incident" in a brief statement. 

Detectives are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

Detective Inspector Sarah Gillion, of Dorset Police, said: “A full investigation is underway and a number of enquiries are ongoing, including carrying out CCTV trawls of the vicinity.

“Officers are carrying out enquiries with the victim to provide support, ascertain the full details and establish the location of the incident.

“I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the town centre around the relevant time to please come forward.

“Local officers in the area can be approached by anyone in the community with any concerns.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210130995.

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.