Woman told police she was raped in Weymouth alleyway

Dorset Police have launched an investigation and this morning a cordon was set up in the area.

The alleyway between Queen Street and Stanley Street was taped off as officers conducted enquiries. Forensic officers were also seen.

Dorset Police received a report at 10.37pm on Sunday "raising concern for the welfare of a woman".

Officers attended and located the woman, aged in her 20s, who reported she had been raped by a man in an alleyway between Stanley Street and Queen Street.

A full investigation has been launched by police - and the force said there will be a heightened police presence in the area as enquiries are conducted.

It came on the same night a woman was assaulted in Newstead Road in a separate incident being investigated by police.

The alleyway was cordoned off on Monday morning whilst forensics team searched the area (Image: Tom Lawrence)

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: "A detailed investigation into the incident is underway by detectives to establish the full circumstances of what happened. A cordon is in place while enquiries are carried out.

Police officers were on the scene at the alleyway (Image: Tom Lawrence)

"There will be an increased policing presence in the area and officers can be approached by members of the public with information or concerns."

A cordon was put in place on the alleyway closing it from both ends, and there was also a second line of the cordon towards the middle of the alley.

Police officers were positioned at either side whilst forensics teams were also on the scene at around 11am on Monday.

The alleyway from Queen Street in Weymouth (Image: Tom Lawrence)

Two police cars and three officers were positioned around Queen Street, Stanley Street and Derby Street.

A spokesperson from Women's Action Network Dorset (WANDorset) said: "Everyone deserves to be safe in any situation or location in Dorset, at any time of day and night. If we can get that right for women and girls then we get it right for everyone. 

"Violent crime, especially sexual offences against women and girls are the worst form of inequality that women and girls experience in our society.

"It is abhorrent, we cannot tolerate it, and firm action must be taken to stop it from happening."

Cllr Tia Roos, Weymouth town councillor for Melcombe Regis said: "It is important that people feel safe.

"There are so many things we need to help prevent crimes in Weymouth, and I expect as always there isn’t enough money.

"There are also safe spaces created by organisations such as the Pineapple Project.

"But, I know from personal experience that it doesn’t matter where or when, women can fall victim to sex crimes.

"Without adequate policing, lighting, education and walking home support services to help protect men and women feeling vulnerable, then there will always be risk.

"There are apps that can help women walking home alone offered here:  https://ynotaspire.org.uk/safety-apps-for-walking-home-alone/ "