A woman was reportedly robbed and sexually assaulted as she walked near a supermarket.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident that occurred at about 4.30pm yesterday near Brideside Mews in Tovil, Maidstone.

The victim was allegedly approached by a man in the alleyway leading through to Lidl and sexually assaulted. He is also reported to have attempted to steal her bag. The man is said to have fled towards Farleigh Hill with some of her groceries.

Officers were called and attended the scene.

A suspect has since been arrested and is in custody pending further inquiries.

Police are urging anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area to come forward.

Anyone with information relevant to the investigation, including motorists with dashcam footage and residents with CCTV, should call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/164124/24.