A WOMAN was raped in Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The victim, aged in her 20s, attended hospital and is being supported by officers following the incident.

Police received a report at 2.51am that woman had been raped near the public toilets.

A cordon has been put in place to allow for an examination of the area to be carried out.

Bournemouth Echo:

Detective Inspector Christijan Boyle, of Bournemouth CID, said: “A full investigation is underway and a number of enquiries are ongoing, including gathering CCTV and obtaining a full account from the victim.

“I am appealing to anyone who was in the Lower Gardens in Bournemouth in the early hours of Saturday 5 September 2020 and may have seen or heard anything suspicious to please get in touch.

“I am particularly keen to speak to a man who rode past the public toilets in the direction of The Square on a Beryl Bike at around 1.50am as he may have important information that could assist our investigation.

Bournemouth Echo:

“Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team will be carrying out patrols in the area and can be approached with any concerns."

Anyone with information can contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200133258.

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.