Man questioned on suspicion of rape in Burgess Hill

Shortly after 3.20am yesterday (Saturday February 22) officers were contacted by a woman who said she had been raped.

A police statement says that the 43-year-old, from Burgess Hill, was waiting for a taxi outside Burgess Hill Library when a man approached her and they began talking.

He offered to walk her home and they set off along Lower Church Road.

When they got to Marle Place in Leylands Road the man allegedly attacked and raped her in a wooded area near the playground.

After the attack the man left and the victim went home and raised the alarm.

A 21-year-old man last night handed himself in to police and was questioned over the incident.

He was later released on bail until 31 March while officers carry out further inquiries.

Detective Inspector Rob Walker said: “We have questioned a suspect and are not looking for anyone else at this stage. This matter does not appear to link to any other incident or individual.

“I am still keen to speak to people who were in the area between Civic Way and Leylands Road in the early hours of yesterday morning, particularly those who saw or heard anything suspicious near Marle Place between 2.50am and 3.20am.”

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting Op Chef, email [email protected] or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.