POLICE have arrested a man over allegations of sexual assault in Bournemouth's Lower Gardens.

The man has been arrested on suspicion of two separate incidents - one on Monday July 13, and another on Monday, July 21.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: "A 30-year-old Bournemouth man has been arrested on suspicion of rape, attempted rape and assault, in relation to allegations of sexual assault on July 13 and July 21 in Bournemouth Gardens."

A major investigation was launched on Tuesday, after an 18-year-old woman was allegedly raped in the Lower Gardens.

Police were called at 2.17am after being alerted by a member of the public.

Officers cordoned off the area of grass, near the park's balloon.

Days earlier, police had issued an appeal for information after another woman was allegedly attacked on Monday, July 13, again in the early hours of the morning.

Increased dedicated patrols were put on in the area, and public reassurances were issued by Bournemouth Central Neighbourhood Inspector, Heather Dixey.

She said: "We are also speaking to local businesses to reiterate our safety messages and are asking them to assist in keeping an eye out for vulnerable women on their own, in and around town.

"It is essential that everyone takes a common sense approach and trusts their instincts - if you don't feel comfortable in an area, then take another route."