Tennis courts sealed off in rape investigation

A police cordon is in place near the park's basketball and tennis courts

A police cordon is in place near the park's tennis courts

Police are investigating a rape during one of Worcester's biggest weekends of the year.

Detectives say a person was attacked in Cripplegate Park at about 02:00 BST on Sunday, with forensic inquiries being carried out near tennis courts.

It comes as thousands are expected in the area for the Worcester Show at nearby Pitchcroft.

West Mercia Police did not reveal any details about the gender of the victim, but said it would provide further information soon.

Det Supt Tony Garner said the news would be unsettling for the local community but the force was taking the incident seriously.

"I know that the area is likely to be busy today with families enjoying the sunshine and visiting the Worcester Show," he added.

"You will see an increased police presence around Cripplegate park and Pitchcroft and we would encourage anyone with any concerns to speak to officers."

At 15:15 BST on Sunday, the force added it was working to obtain a description of the suspect and asked people not to speculate.