A man has been charged following a serious sexual assault in Spennymoor on Saturday (October 22).

Officers from Durham Police attended Jubilee Park in the town at around 8am following reports that a woman had been assaulted by a man in Jubilee Park.  

A 21-year-old man was arrested on Saturday afternoon and taken into police custody where he was interviewed by officers.

He has since been charged with four counts of rape and one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and remanded in custody to appear at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court later today (October 24).

Read more: Spennymoor incident: Jubilee Park reopens as police investigate alleged sex attack

Following the incident and the man, 21,  being charged, detective chief inspector Mel Sutherland, from Durham Constabulary, said: “This has been a very shocking and upsetting incident for the woman involved and those living nearby.

“Specially trained officers are currently supporting the woman and ensuring she receives the help and support she needs.

“A man has been arrested and charged in connection with the incident, and I would like to reassure people that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with it. 

“I’d also like to thank the local community for their support as we carried out our enquiries over the weekend, and to thank those witnesses who have already come forward with information to assist our investigation.”

Anyone who believes they have any information which could help the investigation and has not yet spoken to police is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 95 of October 22.

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