A MAN has been charged by detectives investigating an alleged rape in Sherborne. 

Dorset Police received reports a woman had been raped at an address in Earls Close at around 1pm on Thursday, July 7.

Following an investigation by Dorset County CID, a 65 year old man from Wincanton, Somerset, was arrested in connection with the incident.

He has been charged with rape, kidnap, sexual assault and assault by penetration and is due to appear at Poole Magistrates Court today.

Police are now appealing for witnesses to come forward with information that might assist further enquiries.

Detective Inspector Nicky Jenkins, of Weymouth CID, said: “This has been an extensive and fast-moving investigation and we are continuing to do all we can to support the victim in this case.

“We have consulted with the Crown Prosecution Service, which has authorised a charge of rape for the man arrested in connection with this incident.

“Our enquiries are ongoing and I would like to appeal to anyone who witnessed a man and woman in the street between 11am and 3pm on Thursday 7 July 2022, or anyone else with information that might assist our enquiries, to please contact us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220112103.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.