A YOUNG woman was raped while walking home through a Southampton park in the early hours.

The 20-year-old woman from Southampton was walking alone through East Park when she was approached by a man she did not know, police said. He raped her when she refused to talk to him.

Officers were called to the scene shortly after 4am. It while remain sealed off for a forensic examination.

A 39-year-old man from Southampton was arrested in Brunswick Place at 7.35am. He remains in custody.

Police patrols are continuing in and around East Park to help identify witnesses and potential evidence.

Detective Inspector Gary Towse said the rape was not linked to other sexual assaults recently reported in Southampton.

Police are appealing for witnesses. The suspect was described as mixed race in appearance with facial stubble. He was wearing a hooded top.

Det Insp Towse said: "Our initial inquiries suggest that two members of the public helped the woman shortly after the sexual assault took place.

"I'm appealing for these witnesses to come forward as they may have information that is important to the investigation."

Detectives also want to hear from anyone who noticed a man acting suspiciously in or near East Park in the early hours of the morning.

Contact Southampton Central Police Station on 0845 045 45 45101, quoting Operation President, or call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.