DETECTIVES have launched an investigation after reports of a serious sexual assault on an 18-year-old woman in a public park.

Police cordoned off Ellington Park in Ramsgate as a forensic unit searched the area. The assault occurred in the early hours of Sunday.

Police say the victim lives in Ramsgate. They have appealed for anyone who was in the vicinity at the time to contact them if they spotted anyone acting suspiciously.

The park is located between the town centre and the railway station. Anyone with with information is asked to telephone 01843 231055.