SIX rugby league players who were arrested on suspicion of rape were released on bail today.

The players from Huddersfield Giants Super League squad were questioned by police in Newcastle after a 22-year-old woman said she was raped early yesterday.

The team was staying at the Gosforth Marriott Hotel, Newcastle, after arriving on Monday for a team-building exercise and training.

Club managing director Richard Thewlis said in a statement on the team's website: "I have already confirmed that six of our players were detained by Northumbria police investigating a serious allegation.

"All have been bailed whilst the police continue to conduct their inquiries.

"The club appreciate that the police have a duty to thoroughly investigate all allegations of this nature. We will assist them in any way requested.

"The police will now gather the facts and reach their conclusions. Any speculation is frivolous and risks damaging the reputation of innocent parties. So the full Giants squad will continue to train in Newcastle."

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: "Northumbria Police can confirm that a 22-year-old woman has made an allegation of rape following an incident in Gosforth, Newcastle, in the early hours of January 19.

Six men have been arrested and are currently helping with inquiries.

"All six have now been bailed pending further inquiries."