An investigation has been launched after a woman was reportedly raped in the early hours of the morning.

The incident is believed to have occurred at around 4am on Sunday, October 21 in Hillview Road, Swanage.

The victim – a local woman aged in her 20s – reported she was in the company of a man she had met earlier that night in Bar One in the High Street when she was raped on an area of grass.

The offender is described as white, aged in his 20s and of medium build with short light hair that is longer on top and a beard. He is believed to have been wearing green or khaki-coloured trousers and T-shirt and possibly had a tattoo sleeve on his right arm.

Detectives investigating the incident are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

Detective Inspector Andrea Power, of Weymouth CID, said: “The victim is being supported by specially-trained officers at this time and I would like to reassure members of the public that we are carrying out a full investigation into this incident.

“I am asking anyone with information or who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area of Hillview Road around the relevant time to contact us.

“Local officers from the neighbourhood policing team can be approached with any community concerns.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55180170404. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.