Three teenagers have been arrested following a reported rape on a beach.

It is alleged to have happened to a woman at about 8pm yesterday at the Sunny Sands beach in Folkestone.

Police rushed to the scene and used a helicopter to help find the suspects.

A police spokesman said: “Kent Police are investigating the reported rape of a woman on Sunny Sands beach, Folkestone, at about 8pm on Saturday 15 October 2016.

“An 18-year-old man and two 16-year-old boys have been arrested in connection with the incident and remain in custody.

“The National Police Air Service helicopter was used to help locate one of the suspects.”

People on social media in Folkestone that night commented on a large police presence in the town’s Kingsnorth Gardens and officers have since explained that one suspect was detained near there.

Detectives are now appealing for the public’s help in their investigation.

They want witnesses or anyone who saw anything suspicious to call 01843 222289 quoting reference ZY/37152/16.

Alternatively you can call Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.