Police are investigating a second sexual assault on a footpath in Hythe in two weeks.

Officers today sealed off a path in Green Lane near the Royal Military Canal while forensic teams scoured the area.

Police were called at 1.35am when it was reported that a woman in her 20s had been sexually assaulted.

A spokesman said: “The victim was walking along Green Lane and recalls hearing movement coming from bushes before she was assaulted by a man.

“Forensic checks have been carried out at the scene and inquiries, including house to house, are on-going.”

A 30 year-old man from Hythe was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault at 9.20am and remains in police custody.

DCInspector Ann Lisseman said: "We would like to remind residents that incidents such as these are very rare, but having said that it is still important to think about your personal safety when out and about. Stick to well-lit and busy areas, and try and avoid travelling alone at night. It is also helpful to let others know where you're going and when you'll be home."

She added that police would like to hear from anyone who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously between 12.30am and 1.45am.

Officers are also investigating a previous sexual assault, at 7.30am on Sunday, June 22, in Seabrook Road, Hythe.

Then, a woman in her 20s was assaulted as she walked along the Royal Military Canal path.

She was on the footpath that runs parallel to Seabrook Road, between Cannongate Road and Hospital Hill, when a man forced her off the path and into a secluded area.

He then sexually assaulted her.

Anyone with information on the latest assault should call 101, or 01303 289423 quoting reference 05-0133.