Arrest after 'woman raped on cathedral grounds' as detectives appeal

A man has been arrested after a woman was reportedly raped on church grounds. Detectives said the incident happened within the grounds of Hereford Cathedral at around 4.30am this morning, November 3.

A large police presence was expected to be around the cathedral throughout today. A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape. He remains in police custody.

Detective Inspector Colin Berry of West Mercia Police said: “We understand that incidents like this can be unsettling for the community, and I want to provide reassurance that we believe there is no wider risk to the public. The victim is currently being supported by our specially trained officers.

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“Following the review of CCTV footage, there are people passing through the area around the time of the incident that we would like to speak with. You may have seen something suspicious or witnessed part of the incident, but any information you can provide could be valuable to our investigation - and we encourage you to come forward."

Anyone with information should contact police by calling 101, quoting 092i of November 3. Alternatively email leah.lowe@westmercia.police.uk or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.