Memorial Park in Herne Bay taped off by police after 'sex assault' on young woman
15:00, 18 June 2014
An investigation is under way today after reports a woman was sexually assaulted in a Herne Bay park.
A cordon was thrown around the Memorial Park this morning and officers have been spotted at the scene taking photographs.
Police said a woman in her 20s is said to have been pushed to the ground and assaulted by a stranger in a late-night attack.
Detectives say she had been walking through the park and was on her way to meet a friend when she was grabbed by the man.
It is not known the direction in which the offender left the scene.
Police spokesman Adam Westgarth said: "Kent Police is investigating an alleged sexual assault which took place between 11.45pm on June 17 and 12.30am on June 18 at the Memorial Park in Dering Road, Herne Bay."
South East Ambulance Service said an ambulance attended at 12.30am and the victim had injuries including cuts to her neck and leg.
She was taken to the Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Hospital in Margate for treatment.
A neighbour reported seeing police cars and an ambulance in the area at 1.30am today.
Police carrying out door-to-door enquiries have been asking if anyone saw or heard anything suspicious just before midnight.
Detectives have been seen taking photographs of a bench area and a large part of the park remained sealed off this afternoon.
Anyone with information about the assault is asked to phone DS Shelley Chantler on 01227 868175, quoting crime reference ZY/19879/14, or Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.