A RAPE investigation has been launched and a man arrested by police in Wellington this week.

The offence was said to have happened on the Blackdown Hills close to Wellington Monument on Monday evening (November 11).

A woman aged in her twenties contacted the police to report that she had been raped.

On Tuesday, a man aged 22 years, was arrested in the town in connection with the alleged incident.

The man was later released on conditional bail for further police inquiries to take place.

Investigating officer Det Sgt Ryan Elkins, from the Avon and Somerset Police specialist rape and sexual offences investigations team Operation Bluestone, said: “We are making sure the victim has access to any expert help or support she needs, and we will be keeping her fully updated on the progress of our investigation.

“As part of our ongoing inquiries, we will be reviewing all available CCTV and other footage, as well as progressing any forensic opportunities.

“We know this incident will cause concern in the local community, but we would like to reassure the public that we are treating this as an isolated incident.

“If you want to speak to your local neighbourhood policing team, you can contact them on 101 or through our website.”

Help is available for victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or non-recent.

People can self-refer to The Bridge, a sexual assault referral centre available 24/7 every day of the year by visiting its website or calling 0117 342 6999 for more information.