POLICE are investigating the reported rape of an 18-year-old girl at Appleby Horse Fair.

The alleged incident happened at about 8.30pm on Saturday night when the girl was walking with a friend to get a taxi to Penrith.

Police say the assault happened on the eastbound slip road of the A66, at the Appleby turn-off.

Officers are trying to trace a group of males in their late teens, who are believed to be staying at the fair, which began on Friday and has attracted tens of thousands of visitors.

Cumbria Police say they are seeking to speak to one member of the group in particular, who is described as white, 18 to 19-years-old, of medium build, with brown gelled hair. He was wearing a grey Adidas track suit with distinctive green neon stripes on both the top and bottoms.

Cumbria Police said there had been 30 arrests at the event so far including four for drink driving.

Detective Chief Inspector Jason Hudson said: "An investigation has been launched after we received reports that a local woman was raped in Appleby last night.

"A team of detectives are carrying out an investigation and will be conducting inquiries in the local area and amongst visitors today.

"Teams have cordoned off the scene close to the lay-by while an examination of the area takes place."