Police are investigating an alleged sex attack by a man wearing a balaclava in an alleyway in Ashford.

Officers taped off the path between the Bybrook Cemetery and the Eureka Leisure Park yesterday (Friday) after a woman was reportedly assaulted last week.

However officers just launched the investigation as the assault was only reported to police on Wednesday.

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The incident is reported to have happened between 5pm and 5.30pm last Thursday, January 7 in Cemetery Lane in Kennington.

A police spokesman said: "The suspect was reported to be wearing a balaclava at the time and was said to smell of cigarettes."

Officers say inquiries are ongoing and that no arrests have been made.

VIDEO: Alleyway taped off in Ashford near nursery after alleged sex attack. Ben Kennedy reports

The alleyway was closed off to pedestrians and cyclists on Friday, who were being diverted via Canterbury Road.

It is said to be open again today (Saturday).

Anyone who may have information on this is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222 289 quoting crime reference SI/ZY/000439/16 or call Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.